Using gene editing in the fallopian tubes for new contraceptive methods
Official title: Investigating oviductal gene editing delivered via extracellular vesicles as a novel contraceptive
Funded at Colorado State University · NIH-10914937 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new, easy-to-use birth control method that uses gene editing to safely prevent pregnancy without surgery, aiming to help people who want to avoid unintended pregnancies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Colorado State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Collins, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $125,280 |
| NIH project number | 5K01OD032455-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10914937 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals seeking permanent contraception who are interested in non-surgical options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not seeking contraception or those who prefer traditional contraceptive methods may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores a novel contraceptive method that utilizes gene editing delivered through extracellular vesicles to target the fallopian tubes. The goal is to create a non-surgical, easy-to-use contraceptive option that minimizes side effects and addresses the high rate of unintended pregnancies in the U.S. By focusing on specific genes involved in fertility, the research aims to develop a permanent contraception solution without the risks associated with surgical procedures. The approach leverages advanced CRISPR technology to achieve precise gene modifications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective, and less invasive contraceptive option for individuals seeking permanent birth control.
How similar studies have gone: While gene editing approaches like CRISPR have shown success in other medical applications, this specific use for contraception is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thompson, Riley — Colorado State University
- Study coordinator: Thompson, Riley
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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.