Register      Login
Reproduction, Fertility and Development Reproduction, Fertility and Development Society
Vertebrate reproductive science and technology
Shopping Cart: ( empty )
You are here: Home > Journals > Reproduction, Fertility and Development

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.

Are you eligible for APC-free Open Access?

Download our Journal Flyer (PDF, 1.1MB)

Latest

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

Published online 25 July 2024

RD23217Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) seminal plasma: establishing the proteome and effect on spermatozoa when added to cryomedium

Cameron Negus 0009-0002-7185-9691, Anuchai Pinyopummin 0000-0002-0696-6610, Sittidet Mahasawangkul 0000-0002-0311-2767, Rebecca Hobbs 0000-0001-6989-2447 and Roslyn Bathgate 0000-0002-7922-5610
 

Photograph of an Asian elephant in captivity.

There is an urgent need to develop a means of freezing Asian elephant semen, to enable captive breeding conservation programs to maintain genetic diversity. This study revealed important information about the proteins present in the seminal plasma of these animals and how this may contribute to the successful frozen storage of their spermatozoa. These findings will contribute to our understanding of differences in sperm quality between elephants and aid in developing sperm freezing protocols that will lead to the long-awaited birth of an Asian elephant calf from frozen spermatozoa. Photograph by Cameron Negus.

This article belongs to the Collection Dedication to Jim Cummins.

RD23217 Abstract  |  RD23217 Full Text  | RD23217PDF (1.5 MB)  | RD23217Supplementary Material (1.4 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 22 July 2024

RD24060Leptin in reproduction and hypertension in pregnancy

Harbindarjeet Singh 0000-0002-0805-0614, Fayez A. Almabhouh 0000-0002-8119-3531, Hisham S. Ibrahim Alshaikhli 0000-0001-8413-7060, Maryam Jameelah Md Hassan, Suzanna Daud, Rosfayati Othman and Muhd Fakh Rur Razi Md Salleh
 

A diagram depicting the probable mechanism of leptin-induced increases in FSH and LH release.

Leptin is necessary for normal pubertal development and pregnancy; however, raised concentrations of leptin may have serious adverse effects on pregnancy. This review summarises pertinent information in the literature on the role of leptin in puberty, pregnancy and, pregnancy hypertension. Evidence suggests a significant role for oxidative stress in this, and propose a conceptual framework on the possible events that lead to endothelial activation, raised blood pressure and proteinuria following leptin administration. Image by Harbindarjeet Singh and Fayez Almabhouh.

RD24060 Abstract  | PDF (964 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 11 July 2024

RD23190Characterisation of germline progenitor cells in the testes of phylostomid bats: Artibeus jamaicensis and Sturnira lilium

Norma Moreno-Mendoza 0000-0002-3508-799X, Iván Cabrera-Campos, Noe Zacaula-Juárez and Tania J. Porras-Gómez 0000-0001-9971-8132
 

Photographs and illustrations depicting characterisation of germline progenitor cells in the testes of phylostomid bats.

A population of sperm progenitor cells, known as Asingle spermatogonia, has been described in mammalian testes, but these cells have not been studied in bat testes. Bats are a good model due to their human-like reproductive characteristics. The results show the existence of spermatogonial stem cells that constantly renew spermatogenesis in these chiropterans, similar to that described in other mammals such as humans. Image by Tania Porras-Gómez and Norma Moreno-Mendoza.

RD23190 Abstract  | PDF (10.3 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 08 July 2024

RD23230The role of placental kisspeptin in trophoblast invasion and migration: an assessment in Kiss1r knockout mice, BeWo cell lines and human term placenta

E. N. Panting, J. H. Weight, J. A. Sartori 0000-0002-9351-2122, D. A. Coall 0000-0002-0488-2683 and J. T. Smith 0000-0002-3450-9505
 

Illustration of the three experimental models used to elucidate kisspeptin’s role in trophoblast invasion and migration.

There is mounting evidence implicating kisspeptin signalling in placental development and function. We sought to elucidate kisspeptin’s role in the placenta using three experimental models: a mouse kisspeptin receptor knockout model, culture of human BeWo trophoblast cells, and a human placenta punch biopsy. Our results indicate that kisspeptin may inhibit trophoblast invasion, although further investigation is required to clarify specific regulatory mechanisms. Image by https://www.clker.com/clipart-white-mouse-1.html and adapted from M. Arvola and R. Mattsson (https://doi.org/10.1038/npg.els.0001438).

RD23230 Abstract  |  RD23230 Full Text  | RD23230PDF (1.2 MB)  | RD23230Supplementary Material (1.1 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 05 July 2024

RD24008The short-term effect of COVID-19 infection history on semen parameters in men referred to infertility centres

Negar Osatd-Rahim, Fatemeh Ghorbani, Mahsa Jalali, Fatemeh Karimi, Alireza Ebrahimzade-bideskan and Sareh Karimi 0000-0001-8938-4749
 

COVID-19 infection increases the oxidative stress and reduces the semen quality, thus reducing the fertility potential.

In recent years, the COVID-19 pandemic has been considered a threat to human health. The SARS-CoV-2 virus has caused various disorders in the body’s systems and the reproductive system is no exception. Based on the result of present study, COVID-19 infection increases the oxidative stress and reduces the semen quality, thus reducing the fertility potential. Illustration by Sareh Karimi.

RD24008 Abstract  | PDF (805 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 27 June 2024

RD23216The limitations of testicular organoids: are they truly as promising as we believe?

R. Mecca 0000-0001-7226-0678, S. Tang, C. Jones and K. Coward 0000-0003-3577-4041
 

High-magnification photograph of a testicular organoid.

Testicular organoids (TOs) represent a groundbreaking avenue captivating researchers seeking to understand and restore fertility. While TOs hold remarkable potential, their journey to replicate human spermatogenesis within a laboratory environment remains elusive. This review navigates the landscape of TOs, unveiling their unparalleled potential while dissecting the challenges hindering their success, helping refine these models for transformative clinical applications. Photograph by K. Coward..

This article belongs to the Collection Dedication to Jim Cummins.

RD23216 Abstract  | PDF (2.4 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 21 June 2024

RD23233Differential effect of melatonin on ram spermatozoa depending on the allelic variant of the RsaI polymorphism of the MTR1A gene, incubation medium and season

Victoria Peña-Delgado 0000-0002-4670-3735, Agustí Noya 0000-0002-9552-4709, Melissa Carvajal-Serna 0000-0003-3929-5064, José A Abecia 0000-0003-2827-3054, Rosaura Pérez-Pe 0000-0002-2312-6402 and Adriana Casao 0000-0003-1997-4262
 

Experimental design for testing the influence of melatonin on ram spermatozoa with RsaI polymorphism of the MTNR1A gene

Melatonin regulates seasonal reproduction in ovine species. This study explores the influence of the melatonin receptor gene and its variants on the response of ram spermatozoa to melatonin in different seasons and media. Results revealed that having specific variants of the gene affects how sperm cells react to melatonin. Understanding these genetic variations could aid in enhancing reproductive techniques in ovine species. Image by Victoria Peña-Delgado.

This article belongs to the Collection Non-photoperiodic Actions of Melatonin.

RD23233 Abstract  |  RD23233 Full Text  | RD23233PDF (1.6 MB)  | RD23233Supplementary Material (1.3 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 20 June 2024

RD24047A brief history of technical developments in intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Dedicated to the memory of J.M. Cummins

J. G. Thompson 0000-0003-4941-7731, H. J. McLennan 0000-0002-2058-2488, S. L. Heinrich 0000-0001-7586-1030, M. P. Inge 0009-0006-3001-1650, D. K. Gardner 0000-0003-3138-8274 and A. J. Harvey 0000-0001-6696-0950
 

Photograph of a sperm being injected into an egg as part of the intracytoplasmic sperm injection or ICSI technique.

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection, better known by its acronym ‘ICSI’, is a technique that enables the injection of a single sperm into an egg. Since first practiced in 1992 with human sperm and eggs, it has revolutionised the treatment of male infertility, and an estimated 6 million children have since been born. However, it is not without controversy, especially concerning the long-term health of children conceived through ICSI, as well as the recent push towards automation of sperm selection and injection. Image by M. Inge.

This article belongs to the Collection Dedication to Jim Cummins.

RD24047 Abstract  |  RD24047 Full Text  | RD24047PDF (398 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 20 June 2024

RD24018Efficiency of embryo complementation and pluripotency maintenance following multiple passaging of in vitro-derived bovine embryos

Maura S. McGraw, Jordan A. Bishman and Bradford W. Daigneault 0000-0002-8329-4221
 

Diagram depicting blastomere complementation and cell lineage specification following multiple passaging of bovine IVF embryos.

Reproductive technologies that advance in vitro embryo production while directing cell lineage specification are beneficial for both agriculture and biomedical applications. Multiple passaging of bovine embryos subjected to blastomere complementation allows for the production of genetically identical embryos from a single fertilised egg while shifting cell lineage pluripotency towards trophectoderm lineage specification. These findings may be further developed as alternative strategies for producing genetically identical cattle with desirable traits and trophoblast stem cell models for embryo technologies and placental biology. Diagram by Bradford W. Daigneault and Maura S. McGraw.

RD24018 Abstract  | PDF (2.2 MB) - $35.00   | RD24018Supplementary Material (736 KB)
Published online 17 June 2024

RD23174Expression of transforming growth factor β signalling molecules and their correlations with genes in loci linked to polycystic ovary syndrome in human foetal and adult tissues

Rafiatu Azumah, Katja Hummitzsch, Richard A. Anderson and Raymond J. Rodgers 0000-0002-2139-2969
 

Illustration of possible involvement of transforming growth factor beta in the aetiology of polycystic ovary syndrome.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex disorder with an unknown aetiology; although foetal and genetic origins have been implicated. Ovaries of PCOS women are more fibrous, suggesting involvement of transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signalling molecules. We identified strong correlations between TGFβ signalling molecules and PCOS candidate genes in multiple human foetal tissues associated with reproduction, metabolism, and neurology. Thus, alteration in TGFβ signalling during foetal development could affectdevelopment of multiple organs leading to the numerous symptoms of PCOS observed in adult life. Image by Katja Hummitzsch.

RD23174 Abstract  |  RD23174 Full Text  | RD23174PDF (1.4 MB)  | RD23174Supplementary Material (2.1 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 13 June 2024

RD23133Protective effect of curcumin on testicular damage caused by carbon tetrachloride exposure in rats

Aysel Bayramova 0000-0002-7215-6579, Mete Keçeci 0000-0002-2144-4730, Meryem Akpolat 0000-0002-3419-1728 and Osman Cengil 0000-0002-0702-6751
 

Illustration of the oxidative stress of carbon tetrachloride exposure and its mitigation by curcumin.

Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is a chemical widely used in industry. Although CCl4 exposure has significant toxicity on the liver, there are also experimental studies showing that it causes testicular damage through oxidative stress. Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant nutraceutical. Our study showed that curcumin can prevent CCl4-mediated testicular injury with its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic properties. Illustration by Mete Keçeci.

RD23133 Abstract  | PDF (17.8 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 13 June 2024

RD23227Influence of extracellular ATP on mammalian sperm physiology

I. López-González 0000-0002-1536-0258, I. Oseguera-López 0000-0002-3547-3751, R. Castillo 0000-0003-1472-3464 and A. Darszon 0000-0002-2502-0505
 

Diagram showing how ATP contributes to acrosome reaction in spermatozoa

Reproductive systems express different ion channels and transporters that release ATP into their lumens, which may regulate sperm physiology. Epididymal ATP has been suggested to influence basal sperm motility. Oviductal ATP triggers a head sperm volume increase which contributes to acrosome reaction. Image by López-González, I.

This article belongs to the Collection Dedication to Jim Cummins.

RD23227 Abstract  | PDF (893 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 03 June 2024

RD24065From cardiovascular protection to cardiovascular risk: the metamorphosis of menopausal hormone therapy

Bronwyn G. A. Stuckey 0000-0002-9109-9864
 

Rules for menopausal hormone therapy

The metamorphosis from perceived cardiovascular protection to perceived cardiovascular risk, a perception largely led by the Women’s Health Initiative study, has shifted the clinician’s risk/benefit decision-making away from prescribing menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) for menopausal symptoms. A more nuanced view of the literature and the greater availability of different modes of delivery and formulations of MHT should give the clinician the knowledge and confidence to prescribe appropriate MHT for the greater benefit of midlife health and cardiovascular safety. Image by Bronwyn G. A. Stuckey.

RD24065 Abstract  |  RD24065 Full Text  | RD24065PDF (263 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 28 May 2024

RD24001Protocol for the controlled reproduction of the edible frog Aubria subsigillata in aquaculture hatcheries in the Republic of Benin

Houénafa A. C. Gansa 0000-0003-4663-4298, Geraud D. Akélé and Hyppolite Agadjihouèdé
 

Photograph of egg stripping of a female Aubria subsigillata frog after intrafemoral injection of Ovulin.

The frog Aubria subsigillata is an edible species that is highly valued in the human diet in Benin. However, a strong rarefaction of the species due to its uncontrolled exploitation is observed in the wild. The 0.2 IU/g of Ovulin hormone administered intrafemorally enabled collection of gametes at 13 h in males and 27 h in females, and 172 eggs of 1 mg were incubated after 167 h. A. subsigillata reproduction goes through five phases: (1) selection of mature broodstock; (2) hormonal injection; (3) gamete collection; (4) in vitro fertilisation; and (5) incubation. Photograph by Houénafa A. C. Gansa.

RD24001 Abstract  | PDF (659 KB) - $35.00 

Just Accepted

These articles have been peer reviewed and accepted for publication. They are still in production and have not been edited, so may differ from the final published form.

Most Read

The Most Read ranking is based on the number of downloads in the last 60 days from papers published on the CSIRO PUBLISHING website within the last 12 months. Usage statistics are updated daily.

Collections

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: 07 Jun 2024

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: 16 May 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

Committee on Publication Ethics

Submit Article

Visit the journal’s submission site

Announcement

Reproduction, Fertility and Development is now publishing technical reports, i.e. significant technical advances. More

Advertisement