# RNA regulation in germline development and fertility

> **NIH NIH R35** · ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI · 2024 · $470,347

## Abstract

Our research team explores genetic, molecular, and cellular interactions between germ
cells and somatic (non-germline) cells of the gonad. We focus on the mechanisms
regulating reproductive system formation and function. Key questions are: 1) how are
germline stem cells (GSCs) established and why are they absent in women? and 2)
what establishes and maintains the sex-specific identity of germ cells, gonadal and
extragonadal somatic cells, all of which are required for reproductive success and
species perpetuation. Our goal in pursuing this research program is to define the
developmental mechanisms regulating gonadogenesis to prevent infertility and to
extend reproductive opportunities and choices for women and their partners. Extending
reproductive potential is not only central to population preservation and fulfilling dreams
of parenthood, it will also mitigate or eliminate health risks that accompany premature
ovarian failure, perimenopause, and menopause in many women. From a
developmental perspective, disorders of sexual development (DSDs) are common, and
include gonadal dysgenesis, dysregulated puberty, gender dysphoria, and sterility,
thereby posing challenging sex-specific treatment decisions. DSDs are idiopathic or
result from genetic or hormonal anomalies during sexual development. With humans
living longer and delaying parenthood, declining reproductive potential and increased
germline mutation burden affect all sexes. We will leverage powerful genetic tools, cell
imaging, and genome-wide multi-omics approaches to unravel the cellular and
molecular underpinnings of reproductive development, health, and fertility, largely
neglected areas of biomedical research.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10842759
- **Project number:** 1R35GM153244-01
- **Recipient organization:** ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI
- **Principal Investigator:** Florence Louise Marlow
- **Activity code:** R35 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $470,347
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-08-02 → 2029-07-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10842759

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10842759, RNA regulation in germline development and fertility (1R35GM153244-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-12 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10842759. Licensed CC0.

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