BH3-only Proteins Are Critical For The Developmentally Programmed Death Of Oocytes: Impact On Ooctye Quality And The Fertile Lifespan
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$273,537.00
Summary
The ability of women to have healthy children, and the age at which menopause occurs, are largely dependent on the number and quality of the eggs stored in their ovaries. For unknown reasons, around two-thirds of all eggs die very shortly after they are made. We are unraveling the genes involved in determining whether an egg will live or die, and are investigating the role of these genes as _quality control sentinels", responsible for ensuring that only the highest quality eggs are ovulated.
The Function Of Gametogenenin In Male Fertility And Embryogenesis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$537,579.00
Summary
We have identified gametogenetin as novel protein involved in sperm production and in the very earliest stages of embryo survival. It is found within the sperm tail where it binds to cysteine-rich secretory protein 2. The aim of this project is to further refine the biochemistry of GGN using a combination of binding studies, expression analyses and the characterization of two unique mouse models. This project has direct relevance to the causes of human infertility and contraceptive development.
Cumulus Cell Invasive Migration: Clearing A Path For The Oocyte
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$409,684.00
Summary
Ovulation is the process by which the egg is released from a female�s ovary, but it is not known how this process is controlled. We found that cells surrounding the egg are motile and similar to cancer cells; thus we hypothesize that this enables the egg to _invade� its way out of the ovary. We will test this idea in mice and determine whether similar processes are happening in women. The results will provide new information about how to stop ovulation and aid women who experience infertility.
The Identification Of Male Meiosis Genes Using A New Mouse Line And Human Genome Scans For Gene Copy Number Variations
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$604,793.00
Summary
Infertility affects 1 in 25 Australian men and meiosis is a key process in male fertility, yet we know very little about the mechanisms that control it. We will use a new point mutant mouse model of meisois failure to identify a novel regulator of male fertility. Further, we hypothesize that changes in gene copy number will lead to meiosis arrest and infertility in some men. Such variations will be assessed through a whole genome scan of a unique set of infertile men.
Approximately 1 in 25 men in the western world are infertile, and while environmental and genetic factors are recognized to contribute to disease, there is currently a poor understanding of the basic mechanisms regulating male fertility. Our long term goal is to identify and study key molecules involved in sperm production. Understanding the role of these molecules will provide insight into the causes of male infertility. Ultimately, these studies will assist to develop new treatments for male r ....Approximately 1 in 25 men in the western world are infertile, and while environmental and genetic factors are recognized to contribute to disease, there is currently a poor understanding of the basic mechanisms regulating male fertility. Our long term goal is to identify and study key molecules involved in sperm production. Understanding the role of these molecules will provide insight into the causes of male infertility. Ultimately, these studies will assist to develop new treatments for male reproductive disorders. Conversely, there is a huge need for additional male based contraceptives. Increased understanding of male fertility and identification of proteins exclusively involved in sperm production provides the opportunity to develop new contraceptive treatments.Read moreRead less
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.
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