Understanding how genetic conflicts affect embryo development and species formation
Official title: The Evolution of Genomic Imprinting and Strong Reproductive Isolation
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11092760 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how differences in genes from mothers and fathers can cause problems when different species try to reproduce, which can help us understand why some hybrids don’t develop properly, especially in plants and animals.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $418,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150907-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11092760 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with a background in genetics or those affected by reproductive issues linked to hybrid dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not involved in genetic research or do not have conditions related to reproductive isolation may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic and evolutionary factors that lead to hybrid dysfunction, which can cause reproductive isolation in species. By examining the conflicts between maternal and paternal genes, the study aims to uncover how these conflicts affect the development of embryos, particularly in plants and mammals. The approach combines population genomics, gene expression analysis, and functional genetics to identify the genes responsible for hybrid seed inviability. This research could provide insights into the mechanisms of speciation and the role of genomic imprinting in development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of reproductive barriers, potentially leading to advancements in agricultural practices and conservation efforts.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding hybrid dysfunction and genomic imprinting, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Coughlan, Jennifer M. — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Coughlan, Jennifer M.
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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.