Understanding how sperm survive in the oviduct despite immune responses
Official title: Oviduct Siglecs: Role in the Sperm Immune Response
Funded at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign · NIH-10997422 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how sperm can safely hang out in the oviduct without being attacked by the immune system, which is important for helping them reach the egg for fertilization.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Champaign, United States) |
| Project start | December 8, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $178,212 |
| NIH project number | 5R21HD111954-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997422 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing infertility or difficulties in conception.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not trying to conceive or have no fertility issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the unique ability of sperm to survive in the oviduct, where they are not attacked by the immune system, unlike in the uterus. The study focuses on the interactions between sperm and uterine cells, particularly how sperm can evade phagocytosis by immune cells. By examining the role of specific molecules called Siglecs and the sialic acid-terminating glycans on sperm, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that allow sperm to persist in the oviduct for extended periods, which is crucial for successful fertilization.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into fertility and potential treatments for individuals facing challenges in achieving pregnancy.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific mechanisms of sperm survival in the oviduct are not fully understood, similar research has shown promise in understanding immune interactions in reproductive biology.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Miller, David Joel — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Study coordinator: Miller, David Joel
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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.