Understanding how human embryos manage chromosomal abnormalities during early development

Modeling Chromosomal Mosaicism During Early Human Embryogenesis on Microraft Array Platform

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-11070139

This study is looking at how some embryos with extra or missing chromosomes can still grow well, and it’s exploring how a process called autophagy helps get rid of unhealthy cells, which could help doctors better understand which embryos are more likely to lead to a healthy pregnancy for people trying to conceive.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-11070139 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how human embryos with chromosomal abnormalities, known as aneuploidy, can still develop successfully. It focuses on the role of autophagy, a process that helps cells survive or die, in eliminating unhealthy cells from these embryos. By creating a new platform to study these processes in a lab setting, the research aims to better predict which embryos have the potential for healthy development, especially for patients undergoing fertility treatments. This could lead to improved outcomes for those facing challenges with pregnancy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) who have experienced poor pregnancy outcomes or have embryos with chromosomal abnormalities.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing fertility treatments or do not have concerns related to chromosomal abnormalities in embryos may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the success rates of fertility treatments by identifying healthier embryos for implantation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies in animal models have shown promise in understanding how embryos can correct chromosomal abnormalities, but this research aims to explore these mechanisms specifically in humans, making it a novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.