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Proteomic discovery programme in male reproduction
Summary
We aim to identify serum protein markers that reflect cellular processes, such as germ cell differentiation or response to hormones, for use in basic and clinical research in andrology.
Description
We aim to identify serum protein markers that reflect cellular processes, such as germ cell differentiation or response to hormones, for use in basic and clinical research in andrology.
For example, in male infertility, serum FSH and inhibin B are imperfect markers of spermatogenesis that give no insight into the type of spermatogenic defect. More precise markers would facilitate clinical diagnosis and treatment.
In male hormonal contraception, markers are needed that reflect the type and extent of germ cell inhibition by FSH/LH suppression (eg. specific to spermiation or meiosis) or in response to new agents. Tissue-specific markers of androgenic action (eg. bone, muscle, metabolism) would permit individualised monitoring and facilitate evaluation of selective androgen response modulators.
We propose that such markers will be identifiable in settings relevant to male reproductive health.
We are using proteomics technologies to identify protein markers of gonadotrophin action, spermatogenesis and androgen action, and assess their potential relevance to clinical practice.
Serum will be collected from clinical and experimental subjects including:
control vs. gonadotrophin deficient men (pituitary failure), and in response to recombinant FSH and LH treatment,
infertile men with specific histological spermatogenic defects, such as germ cell arrest or Sertoli cell only syndrome,
Klinefelter's syndrome, before and after androgen replacement,
men undergoing gonadotrophin suppression for male hormonal contraception.
Funding
National Health and Medical Research Council
Outcomes
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Differentially expressed proteins have been identified in the plasma from Klinefelter's syndrome men compared to control subjects (unpublished data). These are currently being confirmed and identified using mass spectrometry.