Male-female Sperm Signalling - A Novel Pathway For Peri-conceptual Health?
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$674,920.00
Summary
This project will investigate a new biological process in reproduction, whereby sperm delivered to the cervix at coitus transmit signalling molecules called microRNAs that influence the female immune response, to increase the chances of conception and pregnancy. We will define the molecular details of this signalling pathway in mouse models, and then determine whether human sperm have a comparable function in ‘priming’ the female body to conceive.
Determining The Impacts Of Epigenetic Modifying Drugs On Germline Programming And Offspring Health
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$863,918.00
Summary
New drugs have been developed that inhibit specific enzymes that regulate epigenetic pathways in cells. These pathways significantly affect growth and development in offspring and may represent a risk to future children of patients taking the drug. This project will determine these risks and provide data for developing clinical guidelines for safe use of the drugs.
Interstitially Invasive Trophoblast Of The Murine Placenta: Developmental Origins, Functions And Gene Expression.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$369,717.00
Summary
Due to the obvious limitations to studying human pregnancy, the mouse has become a valuable model. However, invasion of the placenta into the uterine wall and vasculature, critical for successful pregnancy, is poorly understood in the mouse. The aims of the proposal are designed to gain a better understanding of these processes in mice and will provide a more accurate model system to study serious pregnancy complications resulting from abnormal placental invasion, such as preeclampsia.