Why very early embryos develop DNA damage and chromosome errors
Causes and Consequences of DNA Replication Stress in the Mammalian Preimplantation Embryo
This project looks at how very early embryos copy their DNA and why they sometimes end up with DNA damage and chromosome errors that can affect development.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11370159 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will study mammalian embryos (including human and animal models) to track how DNA is copied during the first cell divisions. They will map the timing of DNA replication across the genome and use molecular tools and sequencing to detect DNA damage and chromosome breakage. The team will test whether epigenetic changes during the earliest cycles cause replication stress and make some genomic regions more vulnerable. The work combines lab experiments, imaging, and genomic mapping to connect replication behavior with where chromosomes break.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People undergoing IVF, those with a history of poor embryo development or recurrent pregnancy loss, or individuals willing to donate embryos or related samples for research would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate therapies for existing genetic disorders or those not involved in embryo donation are unlikely to receive direct benefits from this basic research in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reduce embryo chromosomal errors and help improve outcomes in assisted reproduction and long-term child health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has shown that early embryos frequently experience replication stress and chromosomal abnormalities, and this project builds on those findings using newer mapping and molecular methods.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Egli, Dieter Meinrad — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Egli, Dieter Meinrad
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.