Understanding how specific brain cells control hormone release for female fertility
Official title: Neural circuits mediating pulsatile and surge GnRH secretion
Funded at Kent State University · NIH-11134165 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain brain cells in sheep help control a hormone important for female fertility, and it hopes to find new ways to understand and treat fertility problems in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kent State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kent, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $752,491 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HD114782-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11134165 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include women experiencing fertility issues related to hormonal imbalances.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing fertility issues or hormonal disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural circuits involved in the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which is crucial for female fertility. It focuses on specific neurons in the hypothalamus that are responsible for generating pulses of GnRH and how these pulses influence hormone secretion. By studying these neurons in sheep, the research aims to uncover the complex interactions between different neurotransmitters and their roles in regulating fertility. Patients may benefit from insights gained about hormonal regulation and potential treatments for fertility issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for female infertility by improving our understanding of hormone regulation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding hormonal regulation through similar approaches, but this specific investigation into KNDy neurons is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Kent State University
Kent, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lehman, Michael N — Kent State University
- Study coordinator: Lehman, Michael N
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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.