Understanding Gene Activity in Reproduction and Fertility
Penn Center for Study of Epigenetics in Reproduction
This center explores how gene activity affects male and female fertility, including the development of babies conceived through assisted reproduction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11194318 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This center brings together several projects to understand how epigenetics, which controls how genes are turned on or off, influences reproduction. One project looks at how freezing eggs and other assisted reproduction methods might affect gene activity in the placenta and cord blood of babies conceived through IVF. Researchers will also explore if these changes are linked to birth outcomes and a child's health later in life. Another project uses a mouse model to study similar effects of assisted reproduction on gene activity and health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research focuses on understanding the biology of reproduction and assisted reproductive technologies, particularly for those experiencing infertility or considering IVF.
Not a fit: Patients not interested in fertility, reproduction, or assisted reproductive technologies may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could help us better understand the long-term health of children conceived through assisted reproductive technologies and potentially improve fertility treatments.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific combination of projects may be novel, research into epigenetics and its role in reproduction and ART outcomes is an active and growing field.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bartolomei, Marisa S. — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Bartolomei, Marisa S.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.