Understanding how testis cells maintain themselves in vertebrates
Cellular and molecular mechanisms of vertebrate testis homeostasis
This study is looking at how certain stem cells in animals help keep producing sperm throughout their lives, using cutting-edge techniques to understand how these cells work and what keeps them healthy, which could help us learn more about reproduction and testis differences in different species.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10892792 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the cellular and molecular mechanisms that allow spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) in vertebrates to maintain their population and produce sperm throughout the animal's life. By utilizing advanced techniques such as CRISPR lineage tracing and single-cell RNA sequencing, the study aims to uncover how individual SSCs contribute to self-renewal and differentiation. The research will also explore new regulators of SSC homeostasis and the evolutionary mechanisms behind testis diversity in vertebrates, providing insights into fundamental biological processes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with concerns about male reproductive health or fertility issues.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing reproductive health issues or are not of reproductive age may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of male fertility and potential treatments for infertility.
How similar studies have performed: Other research using CRISPR technology has shown promise in understanding cellular mechanisms, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gagnon, James Alan — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Gagnon, James Alan
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 below.