Understanding how early egg cells form in the ovaries

Molecular Mechanisms regulating Primordial Follicle Formation

NIH-funded research Syracuse University · NIH-10889337

This study is looking at how tiny egg cells form in female embryos, using mice to learn more about the important signals that help these cells develop properly, which could help us understand fertility better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSyracuse University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Syracuse, United States)
Project IDNIH-10889337 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the molecular and cellular mechanisms that regulate the formation of primordial follicles, which are essential for female fertility. By studying mouse embryonic development, the researchers aim to uncover how primordial germ cells differentiate into functional oocytes and how these cells cluster together during development. The approach involves examining signaling pathways, particularly the role of the KIT receptor and other signals like insulin, to understand how these processes occur. This research could provide insights into the fundamental biology of egg cell development and its implications for fertility.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women experiencing difficulty conceiving or those with conditions affecting ovarian function.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing fertility issues or who have already undergone menopause may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for addressing female infertility and improving reproductive health.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms being studied are not fully understood, previous research has shown promising results in understanding follicle formation and its implications for fertility.

Where this research is happening

Syracuse, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.