Understanding how germ cells determine their sex
Official title: Investigating Germline Sex Determination
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11137564 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how tiny cells that become sperm and eggs figure out whether they should be male or female, using a small worm called C. elegans to understand how signals from nearby cells and the cells' own genes work together in this process.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | July 12, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $405,469 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM154088-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11137564 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in the biological mechanisms of sex determination and reproductive health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to germline development or sex determination may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind how germ cells, which develop into sperm and eggs, establish their sex identity. It focuses on the role of signals from surrounding cells and the genetic information within the germ cells themselves. By studying the model organism C. elegans, the research aims to uncover the interactions between somatic signals and germ cell cues that lead to proper sex determination. This could provide insights into the fundamental processes of development and reproduction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of reproductive biology and inform treatments for fertility issues.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding sex determination in other organisms, but this specific approach in C. elegans is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Van Doren, Mark B — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Van Doren, Mark B
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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.