Understanding how maternal factors influence reproduction

Unmasking the role of maternal transcript UTRs in reproductive fecundity

NIH-funded research Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-11136867

This study is looking at how certain genes from mother worms influence the development of their eggs and overall fertility, using tiny roundworms to see how different factors affect reproduction.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Worcester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11136867 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of maternal transcripts during the development of eggs and their impact on reproduction. By using the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans, the study aims to uncover how environmental factors and specific regulatory events affect fertility and embryonic development. The researchers will employ advanced techniques like CRISPR/Cas9 and RNA interference to manipulate genes and observe the resulting effects on reproductive processes. This approach allows for a detailed understanding of the mechanisms that govern reproduction at a molecular level.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing fertility issues or those interested in understanding the biological factors affecting reproduction.

Not a fit: Patients who are not seeking to conceive or who do not have reproductive health concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into fertility issues and reproductive health, potentially improving outcomes for individuals facing reproductive challenges.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research using similar genetic manipulation techniques in model organisms has shown promising results in understanding reproductive biology.

Where this research is happening

Worcester, 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 2026-06-15 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.