Understanding how certain brain neurons develop and migrate in relation to fertility and smell.
Official title: Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Terminal Nerve Development, GnRH-1 Neuronal Migration, and Olfactory Bulb Formation in Normal and Pathological Conditions
Funded at State University of New York at Albany · NIH-11044457 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells that are important for sexual development and fertility move during pregnancy, and it aims to find out what might go wrong in this process to help people with conditions that affect puberty and fertility.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Albany NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albany, United States) |
| Project start | November 15, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $352,674 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HD114827-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11044457 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, particularly those with Kallmann syndrome or normosmic idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any form of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism or related sensory disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the development and migration of GnRH-1 neurons, which are crucial for sexual development and fertility. It focuses on how these neurons move from the nasal area to the brain during embryonic development and how defects in this process can lead to conditions like hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, affecting puberty and fertility. The study aims to identify genetic factors that influence this migration and the formation of the olfactory system, which is essential for the sense of smell. By understanding these mechanisms, the research hopes to uncover potential therapeutic targets for related disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and treatments for individuals with fertility issues and related sensory deficits.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific genetic mechanisms are being explored in this research, similar studies have shown promise in understanding neuronal migration and its implications for fertility and sensory functions.
Where this research is happening
-
State University of New York at Albany
Albany, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Forni, Paolo E — State University of New York at Albany
- Study coordinator: Forni, Paolo E
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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.