Understanding how germline stem cells develop and the role of a specific protein in this process
Official title: Germline Stem Cell Establishment and the Role of Dazl in Gametogenesis
Funded at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-10993582 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells that are important for reproduction develop and stay healthy, using zebrafish to learn more about the role of a specific protein called Dazl, which could help us understand fertility better and improve reproductive health for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $47,938 |
| NIH project number | 5F31HD111230-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10993582 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing infertility or reproductive health issues, particularly those interested in the biological mechanisms behind germline development.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing reproductive health issues or who do not have an interest in the biological aspects of fertility may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the establishment and maintenance of germline stem cells (GSCs), which are essential for reproductive health. Using zebrafish as a model organism, the study focuses on how primordial germ cells (PGCs) differentiate into GSCs and the role of the protein Dazl in this process. By examining the effects of Dazl on PGCs, the research aims to uncover critical factors that influence germline development and fertility. This could provide insights into reproductive biology that may benefit human health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for addressing infertility and improving reproductive health.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific role of Dazl in GSC development is being explored in this research, similar studies have shown success in understanding germline biology in other model organisms.
Where this research is happening
-
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pahima, Maya — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Pahima, Maya
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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.