Facilitating Endometrial Receptivity To Improve Pregnancy Outcomes
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$734,252.00
Summary
The womb prepares itself in each menstrual cycle for pregnancy and the implantation of an embryo. In some women, the endometrium may not prepare itself adequately and this can lead to infertility. We have identified small RNA that may be useful in predicting which women are not adequately prepared for implantation and may be used to develop treatments for infertile women, for which there are currently no treatments.
Interferon Epsilon, A Key Cytokine In The Pathophysiology Of The Female Reproductive Tract Mucosa
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$793,303.00
Summary
The female reproductive tract is a complex environment, which permits pregnancy but protects against infections, all under the influence of hormones and the resident microbial flora. We have discovered a novel protein called interferon epsilon that acts on cells in the female reproductive tract to regulate protection against infections. We aim to discover how this new protein works and will determine its therapeutic potential in infections and inflammatory diseases affecting women's health.
Macrophages In Developmental Programming Of Reproductive Health
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$532,386.00
Summary
Programming of reproductive health in women begins long before sexual maturity. Development during childhood, puberty and adulthood produces a fully functional reproductive system capable of conceiving, gestating and nurturing a child. This project will investigate the role of immune cells known as macrophages in the reproductive system, and investigate how their disruption might influence developmental programming and have lifetime consequences for the reproductive health of the individual.
Leveraging Women’s Health Data Resources To Reduce Chronic Disease Risk And Extend Healthspan
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$763,845.00
Summary
Chronic diseases, such as osteoporosis and asthma, pose serious risks for Australian women. Reproductive health is central to women’s use of health services across life and is linked with the risk of chronic diseases. This research will build on two decades of linked data in Australia’s leading study of women’s health. It aims to guide development of women’s use of reproductive and maternal health services as an opportunity to prevent chronic diseases and improve long-term health.
Seminal Fluid As A Determinant Of Reproductive Health In Women
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$511,294.00
Summary
Healthy reproductive function is essential for conception and pregnancy. We have discovered that male seminal fluid can influence the female reproductive system after coitus. This project will define the actions of seminal fluid in the cervix and uterus, and the impact on fertility and defence against sexually transmitted infection. The findings will provide new insight on how men contribute to reproductive health in women, and lead to improved treatments for infertility and miscarriage.
Redox Cycling Of Quinones By Human Spermatozoa: A Potential Strategy For The Dual Regulation Of Fertility And STDs
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$314,625.00
Summary
The purpose of this research project is to develop a novel form of contraception that could meet the dual objectives of fertility regulation and prevention of sexually transmitted disease (STD). A particularly novel feature of this proposed spermicide-microbicide is that it has to be activated by spermatozoa i.e the formulation comprises a pro-spermicide that only generates the active principle on contact with sperm. This aspect of the method sets it apart from all other forms of topical contrac ....The purpose of this research project is to develop a novel form of contraception that could meet the dual objectives of fertility regulation and prevention of sexually transmitted disease (STD). A particularly novel feature of this proposed spermicide-microbicide is that it has to be activated by spermatozoa i.e the formulation comprises a pro-spermicide that only generates the active principle on contact with sperm. This aspect of the method sets it apart from all other forms of topical contraception because unlike barrier methods and vaginal creams or foams, its use will not be coitus related. Ultimately it is envisaged that the product could be incorporated into a soft pliable vaginal sponge and left in situ until such time as it becomes activated following intercourse. Such a method should be particularly acceptable to young women who are vulnerable to both STDs and unwanted pregnancy as indicated by (a) the relatively high rates of STDs in adolescent girls, particularly in the indigenous community, and (b) the fact that 50% of all recorded pregnancies to Australian women under 19 years of age end in abortion. The method exploits the susceptibility of human spermatozoa and pathogenic organisms responsible for STDs to oxidative stress and, in effect, mimics a naturally occurring cause of male infertility. If successful, this project would produce a female centred method of contraception and STD prevention that would revolutionize reproductive health care for young women worldwide, as well as generating intellectual property of considerable potential value to the nation.Read moreRead less
This study is aiming to develop an unique mouse model in which to study the question whether testosterone plays an essential role in female reproductive and general health. It will develop a genetic mouse model for a biological state of complete resistance to the effects of androgens. Such mice and humans are well known among genetic males but this cannot occur naturally among genetic female mammals. By creating such a mouse line, this project will be able to test for the first time indetail whe ....This study is aiming to develop an unique mouse model in which to study the question whether testosterone plays an essential role in female reproductive and general health. It will develop a genetic mouse model for a biological state of complete resistance to the effects of androgens. Such mice and humans are well known among genetic males but this cannot occur naturally among genetic female mammals. By creating such a mouse line, this project will be able to test for the first time indetail whether testosterone has an impotant role in the development and function of the ovary and of other female tissues such as bone, muscle and the brain.Read moreRead less
The Role Of Primordial Follicle Activation In Premature Ovarian Failure
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$318,768.00
Summary
As women age, both the quality and quantity of their eggs decline and their chances of conceiving plummets. Premature ovarian failure (POF) is a disease of infertility, diagnosed in 3% of all women, defined by the early onset of menopause before age 40. Our poor understanding of the factors that regulate female egg supply remains a major limitation in treating POF. I will study key factors responsible for controlling egg number, with practical implications for POF diagnosis and treatment.
Interleukin 11 And Leukemia Inhibitory Factor: Pivotal Regulators Of Uterine Receptivity And Placental Function
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$511,294.00
Summary
Infertility, spontaneous abortion and pre-eclampsia are major clinical problems. Interleukin (IL)-11 and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) are critical for embryo implantation in mice but their mechanisms of action in women are not well defined. We will define their roles in the establishment of pregnancy and provide new critical information on their potential as targets for diagnostic and therapeutic tools for infertility and major diseases associated with pregnancy.