Understanding how germ cells develop and transition to meiosis in C. elegans
Official title: Control of germline stem cells and the switch to meiotic development in C. elegans
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11013907 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain cells in tiny worms called C. elegans change to become reproductive cells, which is important for making healthy eggs and sperm, and what we learn could help us understand issues like infertility and chromosome problems in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $349,875 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM152192-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11013907 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals experiencing infertility or those with known chromosomal abnormalities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing fertility issues or chromosomal disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the critical transition of germline stem cells to meiotic development in the model organism C. elegans. By examining the genetic and molecular pathways involved, the study aims to identify key regulators that control this switch, which is essential for proper gamete formation. The research utilizes advanced techniques to analyze cellular changes and the roles of specific proteins in this developmental process. Insights gained could help understand infertility and chromosomal abnormalities in humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for addressing infertility and chromosomal disorders in humans.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding germ cell development in model organisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schedl, Tim — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Schedl, Tim
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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.