Understanding how X chromosomes are inactivated during the development of human placenta cells
Official title: Mechanisms of X chromosome inactivation during human trophoblast differentiation in vitro
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10727675 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how one of the two X chromosomes in female cells is turned off during the development of the placenta, which is important for pregnancy, and it could help us understand conditions like Klinefelter syndrome and improve IVF results.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | August 10, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $427,625 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD112754-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10727675 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include women undergoing in vitro fertilization or those with conditions related to X chromosome abnormalities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are male or those not undergoing fertility treatments may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the process of X chromosome inactivation (XCI) in human trophoblast cells, which are crucial for placenta development. By using human pluripotent stem cells, the researchers aim to explore how one of the two X chromosomes is randomly inactivated in female cells, a process that is essential for equal gene expression between males and females. The study employs advanced techniques, including 2D and 3D cell models, to analyze the mechanisms behind XCI during trophoblast differentiation. This could provide insights into the clinical implications of XCI in conditions such as Klinefelter syndrome and improve understanding of IVF outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved IVF techniques and better understanding of developmental disorders related to X chromosome dosage.
How similar studies have gone: While the mechanisms of XCI have been studied in other contexts, this specific approach using human trophoblast stem cells is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Theunissen, Thorold — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Theunissen, Thorold
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.