Reproductive Physiology
Major Research Themes
- understanding the cellular, endocrine and immune interactions involved in
the control and co-ordination of reproduction,
- the development and application of leading edge reproductive technologies.
Our work is focussed primarily on animal reproduction, but has application to
human fertility.
Research Programmes
- The ability to improve the efficiency of livestock reproduction is of particular
interest. Understanding the basic cell biology of the reproductive organs, the
physiology of the reproductive system and endocrine control and regulation of
this system is an important goal to this end. In this laboratory, we have a particular
interest in the impact of the environment on these processes (eg. temperature
extremes, environmental toxicants, nutrition, seasonality). The use of techniques
such as artificial insemination and embryo transfer are important for this work,
as are the newer technologies involved in the production of transgenic animals
and animal cloning which are being used in some of our research projects.
- The use of such knowledge combined with an understanding of the immune system
is the basis for our interest in developing immunological approaches to the control
of animal reproduction (immuno-contraception). This is a particularly valuable
tool in the control of pest animal populations and explains our involvement in
the Cooperative Research
Centre for Pest Animal Control. We are currently investigating the ability
to use vector-delivered immuno-contraceptive vaccines to control feral Pig populations.
For information about studying in this field please visit our Student Services page.
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