Understanding how genetic variations affect sperm development and male infertility
Official title: Impact of 3' untranslated region sequence variants in spermiogenic gene expression and infertility
Funded at Cornell University · NIH-11083780 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genetic differences might affect sperm development and quality in men who are having trouble with infertility, with the hope of finding helpful markers for diagnosis and treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cornell University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ithaca, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2021 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $541,406 |
| NIH project number | 5P50HD104454-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11083780 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are men experiencing infertility or those with known issues related to sperm quality, such as asthenozoospermia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any fertility issues or those whose infertility is not related to genetic factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of genetic variations in the 3' untranslated region of genes that are crucial for sperm development. By focusing on how these variations influence gene expression during spermiogenesis, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind male infertility. The approach includes analyzing sperm quality and genetic data from men experiencing infertility issues, as well as those with suboptimal sperm parameters. The goal is to identify potential genetic markers that could help in diagnosing and treating male infertility.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatments for male infertility, enhancing the chances of conception for affected couples.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic contributions to male infertility, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Cornell University
Ithaca, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grimson, Andrew W — Cornell University
- Study coordinator: Grimson, Andrew W
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Molecular clues to endometriosis-related infertility
This grant explores how molecular changes in endometriosis contribute to infertility, with the aim of finding better ways to diagnose and treat the condition.
-
Oral FSH receptor activator drugs to lower infertility treatment costs
A new oral drug approach aims to improve fertility treatments by using a small molecule that activates the FSH receptor, potentially making infertility care more affordable.
-
Prediction of ART outcomes for male factor infertility using single-molecule chromatin stenciling in sperm
A new test called sperm Fiber-seq is being developed to better predict how well ART will work for couples dealing with male-factor infertility.
-
TLR4 blocker for improving fertility in PCOS
A promising, already-approved drug (disulfiram) will be tested to see if it can reduce inflammation and improve ovulation in women with PCOS.
-
Innovative 3D-printed vaginal ring for progesterone delivery to support IVF pregnancies
A new 3D-printed vaginal ring delivers progesterone over 28 days for IVF patients, aiming to improve pregnancy success with fewer rings and less frequent dosing.
-
Genetics of Male Infertility: Accelerating Discovery and Clinical Impact
This grant aims to uncover the genetic causes of male infertility (azoospermia) to improve diagnosis and pave the way for personalized treatments.
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.