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.
RD25126Genistein mitigates ovarian dysfunction in a PCOS mouse model by regulating steroidogenesis, apoptosis, and PARP-1 signaling

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) causes ovarian dysfunction. This study showed that genistein, a natural soy compound, improves ovarian health in a PCOS mouse model by restoring hormone balance and reducing cell death. Importantly, the findings suggested that genistein’s protective effects are associated with changes in the PARP-1 signaling pathway, highlighting a potential link between PARP-1 activity and ovarian function in PCOS. Diagram by authors using Figdraw 2.0 (https://www.figdraw.com/#/).
RD25064Platelet-rich plasma strategy against freezing damage in ram spermatozoa: its effect on miRNA, ion channels, growth factors, lipids and oxidative stress


From a molecular point of view, 5% platelet-rich plasma (PRP) can be added to ram semen diluents. It is not recommended to add PRP at 10% concentration to the ram semen diluent. PRP at 5% increases sperm motility, vitality and antioxidant activity after thawing. PRP at 5 % improves frozen-thawed sperm quality, enhancing its cryoprotective role. PRP supplementation alters gene and protein expression in frozen-thawed sperm. Image by İbrahim Halil Güngör.
RD25062Molecular dynamics simulations of cytochrome P450 aromatases reveal structural variances across the cat family
This study explores the structural and functional dynamics of aromatase (CYP19A1) across cat species, including extinct and extant members. Using homology modelling and molecular dynamics simulations, we reveal key sequence differences affecting dimerisation stability and haem cofactor interactions. Compared to human aromatase, feline variants exhibit weaker dimer interfaces, particularly in solution, while membrane embedding enhances stability. These findings suggest evolutionary adaptations influencing enzymatic function and substrate processing, providing insights into steroid biosynthesis across species. Image by the authors.
RD25062 Abstract | RD25062 Full Text | RD25062PDF (4.3 MB) | RD25062Supplementary Material (3.3 MB) Open Access Article
RD24187Intermittent fasting restores fertility dysfunction caused by a high-fat diet in male rats: role of SIRT-1/NRF2/P38 MAPK/NLRP3

Intermittent fasting (IF) is a dietary approach against obesity and its related comorbidities; however, investigations on the role of IF in male fertility showed contradictory results. There are complex interactions between HFD and IF on male reproductive health. IF reduces inflammation and oxidative stress by upregulating SIRT-1/NRF2 and downregulating MAPK/NLRP3. IF may have a beneficial effect on male reproductive health, emphasizing the significance of customized dietary strategies for addressing male fertility issues. Image by the authors.
RD24187 Abstract | RD24187 Full Text | RD24187PDF (6.5 MB) Open Access Article
RD25057Expression of irisin in the porcine pituitary gland during the oestrous cycle and early pregnancy: the role of GnRH, gonadotropins, and insulin









Understanding the relationship between fertility and metabolism is crucial, especially as fertility disorders become increasingly common. This study found that levelof irisin, a hormone produced by muscles and adipose tissue, and its receptor fluctuate in the pig pituitary across different phases of the oestrous cycle and early pregnancy. Additionally, gonadotropin-releasing hormone, luteinising hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and insulin can suppress its release. These findings could improve our understanding of fertility regulation and potentially lead to better strategies for managing reproductive health in domestic animals. Diagram by the authors, Created in BioRender (2025) https://BioRender.com/gbwk71y.
RD25034Comprehensive proteomic characterization and functional annotation of common carp seminal plasma
Carp reproduction is crucial for aquaculture, yet the role of semen proteins remains poorly understood. Our study identified 1,402 proteins in carp seminal plasma—the most comprehensive dataset for this species—uncovering key proteins involved in immunity, stress response, and sperm function. These findings enhance our understanding of fish reproductive biology and could improve aquaculture practices by advancing sperm preservation, fertilization success, and disease resistance. Diagram by Anna Małgorzata Majewska.
RD25034 Abstract | RD25034 Full Text | RD25034PDF (1.1 MB) | RD25034Supplementary Material (720 KB) Open Access Article
RD24200Reconstruction of endometrial histoarchitecture and receptivity genes in Asherman’s syndrome patients using a 3D acellular amnion bilayer scaffold seeded with endometrial cells




Fertility rates are declining, and thin endometrium is a big issue of infertility in women. This study aimed to develop a therapy to regenerate thin endometria in patients who are unresponsive towards standard hormonal treatment, and showed that cell-based therapy with a tissue engineering approach demonstrated potential to improve endometrial regeneration. This newly developed therapy may become an alternative to treating thin endometrium with further research. Image by N. Sandora.
RD25055Modelling menstruation in the common mouse: a narrative review
Modelling menstruation in animals that do not naturally menstruate is a challenge but not impossible. This review assesses the literature surrounding artificial menstruation in the common laboratory mouse. We noted that different models produce different menstruation-like events; the results highlight the importance of ovarian factors other than progesterone during menstruation. Researchers should select their chosen menstruation model carefully to ensure the model does not have negative impacts on the outcomes. Image created in BioRender, Rogers L (2025).
RD25055 Abstract | RD25055 Full Text | RD25055PDF (1.4 MB) Open Access Article
RD25060β-NGF and its receptors are present in ram sperm cells, but β-NGF was undetectable in seminal plasma
The nerve growth factor β (β-NGF) plays important roles in reproduction in camelid and ruminant females. Less is known about it in males, specifically in rams; however, this study reports the presence of β-NGF in ram spermatozoa for the first time. This finding contributes to a better understanding of the possible roles in animal reproduction. Image by Rodrigo Carrasco.
RD25058Whole-exome sequencing reveals a novel mutation in the SUN5 gene causing acephalic spermatozoa syndrome

Infertility is a growing concern for many men worldwide, and understanding its genetic causes could lead to better treatments. This study reveals a new mutation in the SUN5 gene, responsible for a condition called acephalic spermatozoa syndrome, where sperm lack heads. These findings offer new insights into male infertility, potentially paving the way for improved diagnosis and personalized therapies for affected individuals. Image created with BioRender.
RD25069Bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) impairs sperm mitochondrial membrane potential and induces sperm apoptosis in infertile men

Genital infection represents a potential factor that could induce detrimental effects on male fertility. It has been suggested that lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a major component of Gram-negative bacteria, could have a negative effect on sperm quality. Our study made an attempt to explore the effect of LPS on human sperms and our data strongly suggest that LPS impairs mitochondrial membrane potential and leads to the activation of some pathways responsible for sperm apoptosis, notably in sperms from infertile men. Diagram by Sana Sahnoun.
RD25030Technical report on preservation of dromedary camel embryos at 4°C for up to 72 h in catalase-supplemented media
The growing interest in camels for racing, milk production and beauty competitions has generated enthusiasm to breed from genetically superior animals by using embryo transfer (ET). One of the major challenges of ET is getting large numbers of recipients synchronized with the donor for the day of transfer. However, it is possible to store embryos at 4°C for 2–3 days and addition of catalase to the cooling medium enhances overall pregnancy rates. This therefore reduces the need for such tight synchronization. Image by JA Skidmore.
RD25042Markers for early pregnancy prediction in Zebu cows subjected to timed artificial insemination



High reproductive performance in beef herds is essential to ensure maximum production and satisfactory economic returns. In this regard, the use of Doppler ultrasound imaging is crucial for enhancing productivity by detecting non-pregnant animals early, allowing for timely resynchronization and reduction in calving intervals. The objective of this study was to evaluate early pregnancy markers for their accuracy and to elucidate the interactions among these reproductive markers. Image by Mariana Alves de Andrande Silva.
RD25054Transcription factor-mediated gene regulatory networks in the formation of oocytes
Female infertility impacts millions globally, prompting the exploration of stem cell-derived oocyte technologies as a transformative solution. Cross-species research has identified NFYA/B/C as core regulators of oogenesis, with NFYA demonstrating a remarkable ability to activate the key oocyte-specific gene Alkbh5. This breakthrough promises to elevate the efficiency of in vitro oocyte production while establishing theoretical foundations for novel infertility treatments. Diagram by Shu Fang.
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.
Guanidinoacetic acid supplementation negatively impacts bovine cumulus oocyte complexes during in-vitro maturation
Combined effects of the Booroola, Vacaria and Embrapa mutations on ovulation rate in a sheep flock with unique genetic background.
Optimizing Gene Expression Analysis Under Hypoxia: Identification and Validation of Novel Reference Genes in Steroidogenic Tissues and Cell Lines

Data-Driven Biomarker Discovery and Risk Profiling for PCOS in Indian Women Using Ensemble Learning
Synchronized Breeding and Reproductive Resilience in Dairy Cattle: Mitigating Metritis, Heat Stress, and Transgenerational Fertility Impairment
From Reservoir to Rendezvous: The Journey of Sperm Through the Oviduct
Gene editing and multi-omics approaches to study early embryogenesis in cattle
When Less Really Is More: Reducing Embryo Manipulation to Lower Metabolic Stress and Improving Long Term Outcomes
External factors influencing reproductive tract microbiota in cattle
Exploring the Potential of Prepubertal Oocytes: A Small Ruminant Model
Extended Embryo Culture: Illuminating a Black Box of Early Development in Ruminants
Heterospermic semen: Implications for managing bull-to-bull variation in fertility
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.
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Seminal fluid effects on uterine receptivity to embryo implantation: transcriptomic strategies to define molecular mechanisms
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 37 (6) -
Intermittent fasting restores fertility dysfunction caused by a high-fat diet in male rats: role of SIRT-1/NRF2/P38 MAPK/NLRP3
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 37 (14) -
Modelling menstruation in the common mouse: a narrative review
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 37 (13) -
Advancements in microfluidic and electrophoretic techniques for stallion sperm isolation
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 37 (10) -
Comprehensive proteomic characterization and functional annotation of common carp seminal plasma
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 37 (13) -
Ovarian culture with mouse serum improves follicle development compared with fetal bovine serum, showing the importance of as yet unidentified factors in follicle growth
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 37 (11) -
Is preovulatory follicle selection influenced by the production of oocyte-secreted factors?
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 37 (8) -
Current status of nonsurgical embryo transfer in swine
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 37 (1) -
Molecular dynamics simulations of cytochrome P450 aromatases reveal structural variances across the cat family
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 37 (14) -
Advances in synchronization and superstimulation for OPU/IVEP: optimizing oocyte quantity and quality
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 37 (1)Jessica C. L. Motta, Cameron B. Hayden, Rodrigo V. Sala, Pablo J. Ross, Alvaro García-Guerra -
Maternal aging reduces female fecundity and alters offspring phenotype in a sex-specific manner
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 37 (5) -
Could metabolic imaging and artificial intelligence provide a novel path to non-invasive aneuploidy assessments? A certain clinical need
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 37 (3) -
Environmental interference and declining male fertility
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 37 (7) -
Reproductive mechanisms, pathologies, and health inclusivity: insights from the 2023 Annual Meeting of the Society for Reproductive Biology
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 36 (18) -
The role of gene editing, organoids, and in vitro phenotyping in sustainable animal production
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 37 (1) -
Accuracy and errors about the human ovary; the good, bad and the ugly
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 37 (7) -
Data-driven technologies and management practices for improving the sustainability of reproductive management
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 37 (1)Julio O. Giordano -
Sodium alginate and bovine serum albumin co-combined improved the cryopreservation quality of boar sperm through the PI3K-AKT pathway
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 37 (5) -
Effect of melatonin treatment of pregnant Sarda ewes on lactation and lamb development
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 36 (18) -
Transcriptomic analysis of luteal tissue supports the earlier onset of luteolysis in heifers with diminished ovarian reserve
Reproduction, Fertility and Development 36 (18)
Collections
Collections are a curation of articles relevant to a topical research area
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: 22 Jul 2025
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: 27 Jun 2025
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 2024. This collection showcases the breadth and depth of research in reproductive biology by emerging researchers in Australia.
Guest Editors
Jenny Juengel (Co-Editor-in-Chief, Reproduction, Fertility and Development)
Graeme Martin (Co-Editor-in-Chief, Reproduction, Fertility and Development)
Ellen Menkhorst (SRB-RFD Liaison, Society for Reproductive Biology)
Last Updated: 03 Jun 2025
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.
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 Apr 2025
This collection of Reproduction, Fertility and Development 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.
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: 03 Mar 2025
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
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
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