Understanding how obesity affects fertility by studying endometrial glycogen reserves

Deciphering the Roles of Endometrial Glycogen Reserves and the Impact of Obesity on Fertility

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign · NIH-11044110

This study is looking at how the sugar stored in the lining of the uterus affects fertility, especially for women who are obese, by using mice to see how this sugar helps embryos grow and develop, which could help us understand more about fertility challenges women face.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Champaign, United States)
Project IDNIH-11044110 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between endometrial glycogen reserves and fertility, particularly focusing on how obesity impacts this connection. The study examines how glucose is utilized by embryos during critical stages of development and how the endometrium supports this process. By analyzing mouse models, researchers aim to establish a direct link between uterine glycogen levels and successful pregnancy outcomes, which could lead to new insights into fertility issues faced by women.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women experiencing fertility issues, particularly those who are obese.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing fertility issues or who are not affected by obesity may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved fertility treatments for women affected by obesity.

How similar studies have performed: While research has explored glucose transporters in the endometrium, this specific investigation into glycogen reserves and their direct impact on fertility is novel.

Where this research is happening

Champaign, 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.