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Reproduction, Fertility and Development

Reproduction, Fertility and Development

Reproduction, Fertility and Development publishes research and reviews on all aspects of vertebrate reproduction and developmental biology. Read more about the journalMore

Editors-in-Chief: Graeme Martin and Jenny Juengel

Publishing Model: Hybrid. Open Access options available.

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Latest

These articles are the latest published in the journal. Reproduction, Fertility and Development is published under a continuous publication model. More information is available on our Continuous Publication page.

Published online 28 March 2025

RD24151The role of extracellular vesicles in embryo development: implications for reproductive health and therapeutic potential

Seok Hee Lee 0000-0002-4656-1618
 

Schematic illustration showing the therapeutic effects of extracellular vesicles on reproductive disorders.

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are tiny but powerful players in the complex process of embryo development, carrying crucial information between cells. This review highlights how these vesicles influence key stages of development, from fertilization to organ formation, and how abnormalities in their function could lead to developmental disorders. Understanding the role of EVs not only deepens our knowledge of early life but also opens new avenues for treating infertility and related conditions. Image by Seok Hee Lee.

RD24151 Abstract  | PDF (642 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 18 March 2025

RD24162Seminal fluid effects on uterine receptivity to embryo implantation: transcriptomic strategies to define molecular mechanisms

Hon Y. Chan 0000-0001-9841-2094 and Sarah A. Robertson 0000-0002-9967-0084
 

Transcriptomic changes in the uterus driven by seminal fluid intromission which influences embryo implantation success

Establishing uterine receptivity to embryo implantation remains a major bottleneck in reproductive success – hence there is a need to better understand the underpinning biological mechanisms. This review summarises and integrates insights gained from gene expression studies that collectively demonstrate seminal fluid drives uterine immune and vascular changes accompanying acquisition of uterine receptivity. Defining the impact of seminal fluid on implantation biology will help us to better understand the determinants of healthy fertility, and develop novel interventions for managing reproduction in humans and animals. Illustration by Hon Y. Chan and Sarah A. Robertson using BioRender.

This article belongs to the collection: Frontiers in Reproduction Science – Rising Stars at the Society for Reproductive Biology 2023.

RD24162 Abstract  |  RD24162 Full Text  | RD24162PDF (482 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 06 March 2025

RD24164Maternal aging reduces female fecundity and alters offspring phenotype in a sex-specific manner

Macarena B. Gonzalez 0000-0002-6567-938X, Eryk Andreas, Yasmyn E. Winstanley 0000-0002-0196-0965, Haley S. Connaughton, Karagh E. Loring, Cheryl Shoubridge 0000-0002-0157-3084 and Rebecca L. Robker 0000-0002-1538-4604
 

Diagram summarising the effects of maternal aging on fecundity and offspring phenotype.

More couples are delaying childbearing, which unfortunately can negatively influence the health of their child. Using reproductively old mice at 12 months old, we examined the characteristics of the offspring of older mothers at birth, and then followed them to adulthood and measured markers of adult health, namely growth, glucose tolerance, immune function and behaviour. This study provides insights into how maternal age influences the health and development of their offspring. Image by Macarena B. Gonzalez.

This article belongs to the collection: Frontiers in Reproduction Science – Rising Stars at the Society for Reproductive Biology 2023.

RD24164 Abstract  |  RD24164 Full Text  | RD24164PDF (533 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 25 February 2025

RD24127Sodium alginate and bovine serum albumin co-combined improved the cryopreservation quality of boar sperm through the PI3K-AKT pathway

Jing Wang, Yongyong Rao, Chongfan Du, Ao Wang, Yanling Wu, Ruiyi Lin, Tianfang Xiao and Weimin Lin 0000-0001-7348-4614
 

Schematic diagram showing how SA and BSA together improve the quality of cryopreserved sperm.

The optimization of sperm freezing and storage program has an important impact on reducing breeding costs, improving reproductive efficiency, overcoming reproductive diseases, and protecting germplasm resources. In this paper, we have included two potential additives, sodium alginate (SA) and bovine serum albumin (BSA), which can effectively improve sperm motility after cryopreservation. This is of great significance for improving the quality of pig semen, improving reproductive ability and the development of modern pig breeding industry. Image by Jing Wang using Figdraw.

RD24127 Abstract  |  RD24127 Full Text  | RD24127PDF (1.4 MB)  | RD24127Supplementary Material (1 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 14 February 2025

RD24117Developing flow cytometry for precise evaluation of amphibian sperm viability: technical report

Leah Jacobs 0000-0001-5309-1709, Talisin Hammond, Natalie Calatayud, Patricia Byrne and Thomas Jensen 0000-0001-9178-7790
 

Standard electron microscopy image of Xenopus sperm.

In the past decade, flow cytometry has emerged as a crucial tool for assessing cellular viability in non-domestic animals, including non-human primates, marine life, and birds. Its application in sperm-quality assessments could revolutionize how we evaluate sperm concentration and viability, enhancing efficiency and reliability. This study validated the effectiveness of flow cytometry in assessing amphibian sperm, demonstrating its viability when compared with traditional, time-consuming methods. Such advancements highlight the potential of flow cytometry to significantly streamline conservation efforts for amphibians. Photograph by Ingrid Niesman, SDSU EM Facility.

RD24117 Abstract  |  RD24117 Full Text  | RD24117PDF (1 MB)  | RD24117Supplementary Material (477 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 14 February 2025

RD24163Lower expression of colony-stimulating factor 2, an embryokine, in the endometrial epithelium of old cows

Denis Karani Wanjiru, Yvan Bienvenu Niyonzima 0009-0008-8896-5056 and Hiroya Kadokawa 0000-0002-8454-9601
 

Diagram showing reduced CSF2 and increased myofibroblasts in endometrial epithelia of older cows compared to heifers.

To clarify mechanisms of age-related infertility, we evaluated the decreased expression of CSF2, one of the most extensively studied embryokines, in aged bovine uteri compared to young ones. We observed suppressed CSF2 expression and increased myofibroblasts, which may contribute to fibrosis, in the uterine epithelium of older cows compared to young heifers. These findings suggest that decreased CSF2 alongside fibrosis may play crucial roles in age-related infertility, opening avenues for further research into potential therapies targeting fibrosis in reproductive health. Image by Hiroya Kadokawa.

RD24163 Abstract  | PDF (6 MB) - $35.00   | RD24163Supplementary Material (532 KB)
Published online 04 February 2025

RD24196Physical activity and male reproductive function

Farhanah Mohd Hamim, Damayanthi Durairajanayagam, Suzanna Binti Daud and Harbindar Jeet Singh 0000-0002-0805-0614
 

A simple flow chart showing factors that lower (on the left) and increase (on the right) male reproductive health.

Exercise is suggested to have a beneficial role in improving the declining fecundity in humans, which is partly due to poor sperm parameters. Literature reports on the benefits of exercise for male reproductive function are, however, equivocal. This review summarises some of the reports and concludes that low-to-moderate intensity exercises, particularly those that do not increase testicular temperature or oxidative stress, are beneficial to male reproductive function. Image by authors

RD24196 Abstract  | PDF (526 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 03 February 2025

RD24160Folicular dynamics, endocrine profiles and endometrial gene expression in fertile and subfertile cows

C. Viñoles 0000-0001-8647-4802, A. Álvez, X. González and A. Meikle
 

A diagram showing the differences in progesterone and metabolic hormones between fertile and subfertile cows.

Subfertile cows that get pregnant late in the breeding season are less productive. We found that fertile cows had more fat and muscle, greater circulating concentrations of metabolic hormones, healthy follicles with more granulosa cells and higher insulin-like growth factor 1 in the follicular fluid. Fertile cows had fewer circulating concentrations of progesterone but the sensitivity of the endometrium to progesterone and adiponectin was greater than in subfertile cows. Fertility was associated to the cow metabolism, that regulates uterine function to reduce embryo losses. Diagram adapted from Meikle et al. (2018).

This article belongs to the collection: The biology of the ovary – Honouring the contributions of Ken P McNatty and Rex J Scaramuzzi.

RD24160 Abstract  | PDF (493 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 28 January 2025

RD24120Selected plant extracts and female fertility: role in the regulation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-ovarian axis in normal and pathological conditions

Wijden Niama, Samia Ben Said, Christelle Rame, Pascal Froment 0000-0002-7388-9598, Mokhtar Mahouachi and Joëlle Dupont 0000-0002-8046-7705
 

A diagram showing potential beneficial effects of some medicinal plants in the polycystic ovary syndrome.

Plant extracts can be an alternative to treat some female infertility. Female fertility is a complex process regulated by hypothalamic–pituitary-ovarian unit involving both negative and positive feedback mechanisms. Because this hypothalamo–pituitary-ovarian axis is crucial in the regulation of female fertility, this review highlights mechanisms of action of various plant extracts on this axis. Diagram by J. Dupont using BioRender software.

This article belongs to the collection: The biology of the ovary – Honouring the contributions of Ken P McNatty and Rex J Scaramuzzi.

RD24120 Abstract  | PDF (818 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 28 January 2025

RD24122Could metabolic imaging and artificial intelligence provide a novel path to non-invasive aneuploidy assessments? A certain clinical need

Fabrizzio Horta 0000-0003-3212-4924, Denny Sakkas, William Ledger, Ewa M. Goldys and Robert B. Gilchrist
 

An image of an embryo containing both aneuploid and euploid cells.

In this review, we explore the limitations on current genetic testing methods for embryos used in assisted reproductive technologies. We highlight the need for new solutions to address these clinical and technological challenges. Furthermore, we discuss a promising approach, metabolic imaging, which could potentially meet these clinical needs and improve the current issues faced by genetic testing for embryo selection. Image by Fabrizzio Horta.

This article belongs to the collection: Frontiers in Reproduction Science – Rising Stars at the Society for Reproductive Biology 2023.

RD24122 Abstract  |  RD24122 Full Text  | RD24122PDF (706 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 09 January 2025

RD24097Role of resistin in the porcine uterus: effects on endometrial steroidogenesis

Marlena Gudelska 0000-0002-5618-1328, Kamil Dobrzyn, Marta Kiezun 0000-0002-8677-5282, Edyta Rytelewska, Ewa Zaobidna, Katarzyna Kisielewska, Grzegorz Kopij, Tadeusz Kaminski 0000-0003-1643-026X and Nina Smolinska 0000-0001-5364-1387
 

Diagram of the role of resistin in the porcine uterus and its effects on endometrial steroidogenesis.

Resistin belongs to adipokines – the group of hormones secreted mainly by the adipose tissue that can regulate not only energy homeostasis but also reproductive functions. We determined the presence of resistin in the uterus and its impact on the uterine steroidogenesis of pigs, an important farm animal. The obtained results suggest that resistin may interconnect metabolism and reproduction, and in the long-term perspective, these results may help improve farm animal breeding efficiency. Image by the authors

RD24097 Abstract  |  RD24097 Full Text  | RD24097PDF (2.4 MB)  | RD24097Supplementary Material (409 KB)

Published online 19 December 2024

RD24132Maternal swimming with overload allied to postnatal high-fat, high-sugar diet induce subtle impairment on rat offspring’s ovarian redox homeostasis

Bárbara Mariño Dal Magro, Bernardo Gindri dos Santos, Pauline Maciel August, Manuela Zeferino Menegotto, David Driemeier and Cristiane Matté 0000-0002-4720-6394
 

A scheme depicting experimental design - maternal swimming (left), diet (center), assessment of ovarian aging (right)

This study explores how a mother’s physical activity and diet during pregnancy can shape the long-term health of her offspring, using a rat model. We found that swimming during pregnancy helped protect against weight gain in the offspring, but when combined with a high-fat, high-sugar diet after birth, it disrupted important antioxidant defenses in the offspring’s ovaries. These findings highlight the complex impact of maternal habits on the future health of the next generation. Image by Cristiane Matté using BioRender.

RD24132 Abstract  | PDF (3.7 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 17 December 2024

RD24131Identifying the composition of large vesicles in the cytoplasm of oocytes

Karen L. Reader 0000-0002-5253-0666, Isabella G. Pratt, Georgia L. Lawson and Robert J. Woolley
 

Electron microscope image of sheep oocyte vesicles and lipid droplets.

Poor egg (oocyte) quality is a leading cause of reduced fertility in humans and animals. Large vesicles within oocytes appear to be important for oocyte quality in animals but their composition is unknown. Our study has identified that these vesicles, which appear empty in electron micrographs, contain lipid that differs to that contained in classical lipid droplets. This knowledge may be used to improve in vitro maturation media to enhance oocyte quality. Image by K L Reader.

This article belongs to the collection: The biology of the ovary – Honouring the contributions of Ken P McNatty and Rex J Scaramuzzi.

RD24131 Abstract  |  RD24131 Full Text  | RD24131PDF (5.3 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 16 December 2024

RD24086A corollary study to substantiate the therapeutic role of receptor from Shigella flexneri in mitigating the sperm immobilization factor-mediated negative influences on mouse spermatozoa: a molecular mimicry-based approach

Thomson Soni, Ishwerpreet Kaur Jawanda, Seema Kumari and Vijay Prabha 0009-0001-8863-1071
 

Diagram showing how SF-SBR counteracts the effects of SIF on spermatozoa.

Bacteria and human spermatozoa share similar surface proteins. This unexpected connection could be key to understanding certain types of unexplained infertility. This study found that a bacterial protein, sperm immobilization factor (SIF), can damage spermatozoa by binding to it. This protein also binds to the bacteria Shigella flexneri. By isolating the SIF binding receptor from Shigella flexneri, this study opens new avenues for treating infertility, offering hope for many affected couples. Diagram by Thomson Soni and Vijay Prabha.

RD24086 Abstract  | PDF (1.8 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 16 December 2024

RD24158A tale of two endothelins: the rise and fall of the corpus luteum

Magdalena Szymanska, Raghavendra Basavaraja and Rina Meidan 0000-0002-6727-6787
 

Diagram showing the role of EDN1 and EDN2 in CL formation, regression and maintenance.

Understanding the intricate dance of hormones in the ovaries is crucial for women’s health and fertility. This review highlights the roles of two short peptides, endothelin-1 and endothelin-2, which govern the life cycle of the corpus luteum – a key gland for maintaining pregnancy. Our findings reveal that while endothelin-2 promotes the formation of this gland, endothelin-1 triggers its demise, together shedding light on the control and regulation of the reproductive cycle and potential treatments for reproductive disorders. Diagram by Magdalena Szymanska, Raghavendra Basavaraja and Rina Meidan.

RD24158 Abstract  | PDF (818 KB) - $35.00 

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Most Read

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Collections

Collections are a curation of articles relevant to a topical research area

Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the International Embryo Technology Society, Fort Worth, TX, USA, 18–22 January 2025

This collection contains full papers and abstracts from the 2025 IETS annual conference. The content focuses on this year’s conference theme of 'Emerging technologies for healthy reproduction and sustainability'.

This collection was published for the International Embryo Technology Society by CSIRO Publishing.

The papers in this collection are free to read until 30 April 2025.

Edited on behalf of the Society by Program Co-Chairs
Paula Rodriguez-Villamil (Genus plc, DeForest, WI, USA)
Kiho Lee (University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA)

Last Updated: 21 Mar 2025

Frontiers in Reproduction Science – Rising Stars at the Society for Reproductive Biology 2023

This collection of Reproduction, Fertility and Development contains papers by early- and mid-career researchers who presented at the annual meeting of the Society for Reproductive Biology (SRB) in November 2023. This inaugural collection showcases the breadth and depth of research in reproductive biology by emerging researchers in Australia.

The papers in this collection are free to read for one month, from 20 March 2025

Guest Editors
Jenny Juengel (Co-Editor-in-Chief, Reproduction, Fertility and Development)
Graeme Martin (Co-Editor-in-Chief, Reproduction, Fertility and Development)
Caitlin Wyrwoll (SRB-RFD Liaison, Society for Reproductive Biology)

Last Updated: 20 Mar 2025

The biology of the ovary – Honouring the contributions of Ken P McNatty and Rex J Scaramuzzi

This collection of Reproduction, Fertility and Development celebrates the work of Rex Scaramuzzi and Ken McNatty, both of whom were passionate about the field of reproductive biology. The papers were written by colleagues, collaborators and friends, and cover a variety of topics, but with a focus on the functions of the ovary in livestock, where their impact was most profound.

Collection Editors
Jenny Juengel (Co-Editor-in-Chief, Reproduction, Fertility and Development)
Graeme Martin (Co-Editor-in-Chief, Reproduction, Fertility and Development)

Last Updated: 03 Feb 2025

Non-photoperiodic Actions of Melatonin

Historically, melatonin has been seen as a pineal hormone that plays one essential role – the synchronisation of reproductive and other brain-controlled functions with changes in photoperiod. Often driven by the detection of melatonin receptors in non-brain tissues, it has become clear that melatonin plays a much wider variety of roles in the function of the testis, sperm, ovary, follicles, oocyte, embryo, placenta, fetus and mammary gland. This Collection presents this broader view of melatonin biology, and how the new concepts can be applied to livestock production.

Collection Editors
Alfonso Abecia, Guest Editor (Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Spain)
Graeme B. Martin, Co-Editor-in-Chief (Reproduction Fertility and Development)

Last Updated: 06 Dec 2024

Dedication to Jim Cummins

This collection of Reproduction, Fertility and Development celebrates the important contributions James (Jim) Michael Cummins made to the field of reproductive biology. It covers a variety of topics but with a clear focus on spermatology where Jim’s impact, as a scientist and a teacher, was most profound.

Collection Editors
Marc Yeste, Guest Editor (University of Girona, Spain)
Graeme B. Martin, Co-Editor-in-Chief (Reproduction Fertility and Development)

Last Updated: 14 Oct 2024

Celebrating 30 Years of Excellence: Reproduction, Fertility and Development

In 2018, Reproduction, Fertility and Development celebrated 30 years of publication and we recognised this milestone with this Collection of papers. Papers were selected based on hard data (citations and downloads) but we also chose papers that reflect other criteria: landmarks in important aspects of reproductive biology; recognition of an influential individual; showcasing the breadth of the journal’s output (species studied; the stages in the process of reproduction); balance between biology and technology; and the international nature of contributors to the journal.

Collection Editor
Graeme Martin

Last Updated: 19 Jul 2018

World Congress of Reproductive Biology Showcase

Compiled to coincide with the World Congress of Reproductive Biology in Edinburgh, Scotland (2–4 September 2014), this Collection features publications from Congress speakers and on topics relevant to delegates. Comprising recent reviews and original research, the collection highlights significant contributions in the field of vertebrate reproductive biology.

Last Updated: 28 Aug 2014

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