Understanding Genetic Factors in Male Fertility
Research Project 4: Epigenetic Regulation of Retrotransposon Silencing and Male Fertility in the Mouse
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11194378
This work explores how certain genetic elements are controlled in male reproductive cells, which is important for healthy sperm development and fertility.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11194378 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our bodies have special genetic elements called retrotransposons that need to be kept quiet in reproductive cells to protect our genetic information. This project looks at how these elements are silenced during the development of male reproductive cells. We are focusing on a specific protein, TEX15, which we found is crucial for this silencing process and for producing healthy sperm. When TEX15 is missing, sperm can develop abnormally, which can lead to infertility. By understanding how TEX15 and its partners work, we hope to learn more about the genetic causes of male infertility.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patients, but future clinical applications could benefit men experiencing unexplained infertility.
Not a fit: Patients whose infertility is not related to the genetic mechanisms of retrotransposon silencing or TEX15 function may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of the genetic causes of male infertility and potentially new ways to diagnose or treat it.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this team has already identified TEX15's role in retrotransposon silencing, building on existing knowledge in the field of reproductive genetics.
Where this research is happening
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA — PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WANG, PEIJING JEREMY — UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
- Study coordinator: WANG, PEIJING JEREMY
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.