Understanding how a specific protein affects egg development and fertility.
Official title: Elucidating the mechanism by which Elastin Microfibril interface-located protein 1 (EMILIN1) contributes to folliculogenesis
Funded at Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago · NIH-10997060 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called EMILIN1 might help improve egg growth for people with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), using special materials from cow ovaries to potentially boost fertility options for those having trouble getting pregnant.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 16, 2024 |
| Project end | September 15, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $44,187 |
| NIH project number | 1F31HD116552-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997060 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing premature ovarian insufficiency or those seeking to preserve their fertility due to medical conditions or treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing fertility issues or those who have already achieved successful pregnancies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), a condition that leads to infertility due to decreased ovarian function. The study aims to explore the role of a protein called EMILIN1 in the development of ovarian follicles, which are essential for egg maturation. By using advanced biomaterials derived from bovine ovarian tissue, the researchers hope to enhance follicle growth and improve the quality of eggs in laboratory settings. This could lead to better fertility preservation techniques for individuals facing challenges in conceiving.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved fertility preservation methods for individuals with premature ovarian insufficiency.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using biomaterials for enhancing fertility outcomes, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcdowell, Hannah — Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Mcdowell, Hannah
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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.