Understanding how a protein affects embryo development and fertility
Official title: Defining the role of DOT1L in chromocenter stabilization pre- and post-fertilization
Funded at Yale University · NIH-10739438 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called DOT1L helps shape important structures in our cells during the early stages of embryo development, which could help us understand some fertility problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $460,625 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD110843-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10739438 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are couples experiencing infertility or difficulties conceiving.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not seeking to conceive or who have no fertility issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called DOT1L in the structural changes of chromatin that occur before and after fertilization. It focuses on how chromocenters, which are important nuclear structures, are formed and maintained during the early stages of embryo development. By studying these processes, the research aims to identify the molecular signals that regulate chromocenter disassembly in sperm and their reassembly in embryos. This could provide insights into fertility issues related to chromatin organization.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for addressing infertility by improving our understanding of embryo viability.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding chromatin dynamics and its impact on fertility, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lesch, Bluma J — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Lesch, Bluma J
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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.