Understanding how fetal male germ cells repair DNA damage
Official title: Mechanisms of Double Strand Break Repair in Fetal Male Germ Cells
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11033103 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how baby boys' developing sperm cells fix their DNA before birth, helping us understand how mistakes in this process might lead to problems that can be passed down to future generations.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $107,458 |
| NIH project number | 1K99HD117011-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11033103 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are expectant parents concerned about male fertility or genetic conditions that may affect their offspring.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not planning to conceive or those with established infertility issues unrelated to genetic factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which fetal male germ cells repair double strand breaks in their DNA. It focuses on the critical period just before birth when these cells are developing and undergoing changes that can affect their ability to produce healthy sperm. By studying the DNA repair processes, the research aims to uncover how errors in these mechanisms can lead to heritable genomic issues. The approach includes examining the different pathways used for DNA repair and how they function during a specific phase of cell development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of male fertility and potential interventions for genetic issues affecting sperm production.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific mechanisms of DNA repair in fetal male germ cells are not extensively studied, related research in DNA repair pathways has shown promising results in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hatkevich, Talia Lee — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Hatkevich, Talia Lee
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.