Understanding how to reverse age-related fertility decline using planarians
Reversal of Age-Associated Damage in the Planarian Germline
This study is looking at how getting older affects fertility by using a special type of flatworm that can heal itself and even reverse some aging effects, with the hope of finding ways to help people facing fertility challenges as they age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11002343 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind age-related fertility decline by studying the planarian species S. mediterranea, which can regenerate and reverse aging effects. The project aims to identify how aging affects fertility at the cellular level and how regeneration can restore fertility. By bisecting the planarians and observing their regenerative processes, the research seeks to uncover potential interventions that could address fertility issues associated with aging in humans.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing age-related fertility issues, particularly those between the ages of 18 and 45.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing fertility issues or are outside the age range of 18 to 45 may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that restore fertility in aging individuals.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research on reversing aging in fertility, the unique regenerative capabilities of planarians suggest a novel approach that has not been extensively tested in this context.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Verdesca, Andrew — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Verdesca, Andrew
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.