Understanding how assisted reproduction affects children's health
Project 2: Epigenetic, Behavioral, and Physiological Outcomes in a Mouse ART Model
This research looks at how assisted reproductive technologies (ART) might lead to certain health conditions in children, like Angelman Syndrome, by studying these effects in a mouse model.
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-11194372 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many families rely on assisted reproductive technologies (ART) to have children, but sometimes children conceived this way face a higher chance of certain health issues, including genetic disorders and problems with growth or metabolism. We believe these issues might start very early, when ART procedures affect how a developing embryo's genes are programmed. Since it's hard to study this in human embryos, we use a mouse model to carefully observe how ART impacts gene regulation, placental health, and the overall well-being of the offspring. We are also specifically looking at oocyte vitrification, a freezing method, to see if it adds to these potential effects on development and health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for individuals considering or undergoing assisted reproductive technologies, as well as families affected by conditions like Angelman Syndrome or Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome.
Not a fit: Patients not considering or undergoing assisted reproductive technologies may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help us understand how to make assisted reproductive technologies safer and reduce the risk of health problems for children conceived through ART.
How similar studies have performed: While the general risks of ART are known, this research specifically explores the effects of oocyte vitrification and detailed epigenetic changes, which are areas where more understanding is needed.
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.