Using a special capsule to deliver cell therapy to restore ovarian function in animals

Immuno-Isolating capsule for delivery of cell-based therapy for restoration of ovarian endocrine function in an animal model

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11120899

This study is exploring a new way to help young women who have premature ovarian insufficiency, often due to cancer treatments, by using a special capsule to deliver ovarian tissue in monkeys, with hopes of restoring their ovarian function and helping them start puberty again.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11120899 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel approach to treat premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), a condition often caused by cancer treatments like chemotherapy. The study focuses on using an immuno-isolating capsule to deliver ovarian allografts in non-human primates, aiming to restore normal ovarian function and initiate puberty. By testing this method in a more clinically relevant animal model, the researchers hope to overcome limitations seen in previous rodent studies. The ultimate goal is to develop a therapy that could benefit young female cancer survivors facing fertility and hormonal challenges.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are young female cancer survivors who have experienced premature ovarian insufficiency due to cancer treatments.

Not a fit: Patients who are not female or those who have not undergone cancer treatments that lead to ovarian insufficiency may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that restore ovarian function and fertility in young female cancer survivors.

How similar studies have performed: While similar approaches have shown promise in rodent models, this research aims to extend those findings to non-human primates, marking a significant step towards clinical application.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.