Research Trial:
Researchers at Monash Medical Centre, Clayton in collaboration with the World Health Organisation are trialing a new male contraceptive method. We need healthy couples living in a stable relationship and not planning pregnancy for two years.
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Research Projects

Projects Supervisor:

Dr Peter Stanton
Honorary Lecturer in Biochemistry,
Monash University
Phone: 9594 4389
Email: peter.stanton@princehenrys.org

Projects available:

1. Proteins involved in sperm release

Supervisors: Dr Liza O'Donnell and Dr Peter Stanton
Contact: liza.odonnell@princehenrys.org

Our research into the regulation of sperm production has identified that the process of sperm release (spermiation) is affected when male hormonal contraceptives are given. Contraceptives that specifically and completely inhibit this process would be highly effective and would have limited side effects and therefore we are mapping the molecular events involved in spermiation. Research projects are available in this area using a variety of molecular biological and proteomic techniques.

2. Genetic causes of male infertility

Supervisor: Professor Rob McLachlan
Contact: rob.mclachlan@princehenrys.org

More than half of all unexplained male infertility is thought to have a genetic cause. We are studying a large cohort of infertile men to identify the genetic factors that contribute to male infertility. Having access to a large patient cohort means that we can identify and test genes which we think are associated with male infertility. We use molecular biology techniques such as PCR, DHPLC and DNA sequencing.

3. Regulation of Sertoli cell junctions

Supervisor: Dr Peter Stanton
Contact: peter.stanton@princehenrys.org

When male hormonal contraception is given, tight junctions between Sertoli cells in the testis lose their functionality. However, the molecular mechanism(s) governing tight junctions are poorly understood. Several projects are available which address tight junction function using a range of in vitro and in vivo models, with endpoints including real-time PCR, immunohistochemistry, and western blots.

4. Germ cell regulation of Sertoli cell function

Supervisors: Dr Peter Stanton and Dr Craig Harrison
Contact: peter.stanton@princehenrys.org

Germ cell maturation in the adult male is a complex process involving numerous cell types in close association. Recently, we have shown that two members of the TGF b superfamily, GDF9 and BMP15, are synthesised by germ cells at a particular stage of development, and are capable of altering Sertoli cell function. A project is available to characterise the molecular targets of GDF9 and BMP15 action in Sertoli cells, using a range of molecular biological and proteomic endpoints.




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