The University of Illinois has been awarded a $626,812 Project Grant from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) under the Environmental Health (CFDA 93.113) federal grant program. The grant aims to study novel cytoplasmic remodeling mechanisms that are critical for the vertebrate oocyte-to-embryo transition, a crucial process for reproductive success. Key research areas include investigating the evolutionary conservation of dynamic ER remodeling, regulated mRNA-ER association, and RNA phase transition during this transition, as well as the role of the CDC42-WASL-ARP2/3 signaling cascade in regulating ER remodeling. Additionally, the project will examine the impact of environmental phthalate exposure on disrupting cytoplasmic remodeling during the oocyte-to-embryo transition. The research is expected to identify novel mechanisms influencing vertebrate reproductive success, which could have significant implications for improving human reproductive health. The grant term runs from January 24, 2025 through November 30, 2029.
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