Understanding how mechanical forces influence cell development in embryos
Official title: Investigating the role of nuclear mechanics in the regulation of chromatin structure and embryonic cell fate
Funded at Yale University · NIH-10903910 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how physical forces in the early stages of pregnancy can influence the development of important cell types, which could help us understand more about successful pregnancies and find new ways to treat infertility.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | August 10, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $124,170 |
| NIH project number | 5K99HD112607-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10903910 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals experiencing infertility or complications related to early pregnancy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not seeking to conceive or who are not experiencing pregnancy-related issues may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how mechanical forces affect the differentiation of two critical cell types during early embryonic development: the inner cell mass (ICM) and the trophectoderm (TE). By examining the role of the Hippo signaling pathway and chromatin structure, the study aims to uncover how these mechanical influences can regulate gene expression and cell fate. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the mechanisms of successful pregnancy and potential treatments for infertility. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze cellular responses to mechanical stimuli in a controlled laboratory setting.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatments for infertility and complications during early pregnancy.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of mechanical forces in cell differentiation, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sherrard, Alice Louisa — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Sherrard, Alice Louisa
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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.