RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Mechanisms and Factors Responsible for the Inhibition of Transposons During Fetal Gonad Development in Humans

This study aims to understand how certain tiny pieces of DNA, called 'transposons' (sometimes known as 'jumping genes'), are kept under control as a baby boy's reproductive organs develop. These transposons can move around and might cause problems if not properly managed. Researchers will study tissue samples from unborn babies whose parents have chosen to have a termination of pregnancy. This will help them learn more about normal development and possibly what goes wrong in some conditions. The study will take place in one centre over three years and includes 30 patients, looking at different stages of pregnancy.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Dijon

Enrolment target

Start

29 Jan 2014

Estimated completion

01 Jan 2027

Medical Termination of Pregnancy Voluntary Termination of Pregnancy

What is this study about?

This research study is looking into a very specific and important process that happens when a baby boy's reproductive organs (gonads) are forming during pregnancy. Inside our bodies, we have tiny pieces of genetic material called 'transposons'. You can think of them like small 'jumping genes' that can move from one place to another in our DNA. While some are harmless, others can cause problems if they become too active.

The main goal of this study is to understand how the body controls these 'jumping genes' during this crucial developmental period. The researchers want to find out what mechanisms are in place to stop them from moving around too much. By studying these processes, they hope to get a clearer picture of how healthy development normally happens, and what might go wrong if these controls aren't working properly.

To do this, the study will involve looking at tissue samples from unborn babies after a medical or voluntary termination of pregnancy. This is very important as it allows scientists to study development at different stages. By understanding these fundamental processes, the research could eventually help us understand certain reproductive health issues or developmental conditions in the future.

Key takeaways

Researchers are studying how 'jumping genes' are controlled in developing baby boys' reproductive organs.
The study uses tissue samples after a termination of pregnancy to understand normal development.
It aims to improve our understanding of reproductive health and developmental processes.
Participation involves no direct risks to the patient.
Your decision to take part will not affect your medical care.

Who may be eligible?

To take part in this study, the parents of the unborn baby must have given their written permission. The pregnancy must be between 10 and 37 weeks, and the baby must be male.

The study is only for cases where a medical or voluntary termination of pregnancy has taken place. Parents must also have national health insurance in the country where the study is happening.

Your baby would not be able to be included if they have certain conditions. This includes if the baby has an unusual number of chromosomes (like in Down's syndrome, for example), or if there's a visible problem with the baby's reproductive organs.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

I have given my written permission (consent).
My pregnancy is between 10 and 37 weeks.
My baby is male.
My pregnancy is being terminated (medical or voluntary).
I have national health insurance.
My baby does not have certain chromosome problems or visible genital malformations.

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, it means that after a medical or voluntary termination of your pregnancy, tissue samples will be collected from the unborn baby. The main tissue of interest will be the reproductive organs. In addition, for comparison purposes, small samples of liver and psoas muscle (a muscle in the lower back) will also be collected. These samples will then be sent for laboratory tests, where scientists will examine the genetic material to understand how the 'jumping genes' are being controlled. There are no extra visits or assessments for you; all samples are collected once, immediately following the termination.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study does not involve any direct physical risks to you, as all samples are collected during an already planned procedure. The potential benefit of this research is not directly for you or your family, but it contributes to a greater understanding of how human development works, which could help future generations. You are free to withdraw your consent at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your medical care.

Locations (1)

CHU de DIJON
Verified postcode
Dijon, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What are 'transposons'?

Transposons are tiny pieces of DNA, sometimes called 'jumping genes', that can move around within our genetic code. Researchers want to know how these are controlled during development.

Why focus on fetal gonads?

The gonads (reproductive organs) are a key focus because this is where important developmental processes occur, and controlling these 'jumping genes' is especially crucial here.

Will my decision to take part affect my care?

No, your decision will not affect your medical care in any way. You will receive the same care whether you participate or not.

What happens to the tissue samples?

The tissue samples will be analysed by scientists in a laboratory to study the genetic material and understand how certain genes are regulated. Your privacy and anonymity will be protected.

How long will the study last?

The study itself will take place over three years, but your participation involves a one-time tissue collection after the termination of pregnancy.

How to find out more

Patricia FAUQUE

patricia.fauque@chu-dijon.fr 3.80.29.50.31 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.