Understanding sperm function and dysfunction
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Understanding human sperm function and dysfunction
IRAS ID
272999
Contact name
Sarah Martins da Silva
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
UoD
Duration of Study in the UK
5 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
Infertility is estimated to affect 1:6 couples globally. Male factor is the underlying cause in over half of all cases, yet there are very limited treatment options for affected couples, other than undertaking IVF / ICSI, which is expensive, invasive and without guarantee of success. Poor sperm motility is the commonest underlying factor in male infertility, however, the processes defining and controlling sperm function are not fully understood.
This project has several areas of research focus:
Firstly, we hope to understand normal sperm function, by examining how sperm work (moving and swimming), calcium responses to chemicals normally encountered in the female (for example, progesterone), protein expression and cell membrane properties
Secondly, we hope to understand why sperm don't work, by examining similar properties of sperm from patients undertaking fertility treatment as well from those affected by low (<25%) or failed fertilisation following IVF treatment.
Thirdly, we hope to develop new treatment options for infertile men, using drug discovery techniques.
Lastly, we also aim to use the knowledge we gain to improve patient diagnostics to improve clinical care for male infertility.REC name
South East Scotland REC 01
REC reference
20/SS/0104
Date of REC Opinion
22 Oct 2020
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion