Robert McLachlan is an internationally recognised clinician-scientist in male reproductive health. His basic research examines the genetic & endocrine regulation of sperm production. His clinical studies span male fertility regulation, the use of assisted reproductive treatments, and the evidence-based use of androgen replacement. As Director of Andrology Australia, he has a leading national role in professional and community education, developing research capacity and male health advocacy.
ATR-X Syndrome: Role Of ATRX In Testicular Growth And Spermatogenesis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$650,881.00
Summary
Infertility is surprisingly common and affects 1 in 20 Australian men. Testosterone and its receptor, the androgen receptor, are well known to be essential for spermatogenesis and fertility. We have identified an important regulator protein (ATRX) of androgen receptor activity and show that loss of function of ATRX in testes of mice leads to spermatogenesis defects. Identifying the molecular action of ATRX will lead to a better understanding of the underlying causes of infertility in men.