Understanding the mechanical forces involved in ovulation
Official title: Follicle-Inherent Biomechanical Mechanisms Underlying Ovulation
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11055276 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the natural movements and pressures inside the ovaries help release an egg during ovulation, which is important for fertility, and it could lead to better treatments for infertility and new birth control options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $44,487 |
| NIH project number | 5F30HD113284-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11055276 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing infertility due to ovulation disorders or ovarian pathologies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing fertility issues or those with conditions unrelated to ovulation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the biomechanical mechanisms that drive ovulation, which is crucial for human fertility. By studying the fluid dynamics and pressure changes within the ovarian follicle, the research aims to uncover how these forces contribute to the rupture of the follicle and the release of the egg. The approach includes using an ex vivo model to simulate and analyze the ovulatory process, focusing on the intrinsic forces of the follicle itself. This could lead to new insights into infertility treatments and contraceptive methods.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for infertility and the development of new contraceptive options.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding molecular mechanisms of ovulation, but this biomechanical approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zaniker, Emily — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Zaniker, Emily
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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.