Understanding how early egg cells form in the ovaries
Official title: Molecular Mechanisms regulating Primordial Follicle Formation
Funded at Syracuse University · NIH-10889337 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Syracuse University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Syracuse, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $186,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD112756-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10889337 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women experiencing difficulty conceiving or those with conditions affecting ovarian function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing fertility issues or who have already undergone menopause may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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 University
Syracuse, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pepling, Melissa E — Syracuse University
- Study coordinator: Pepling, Melissa 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.