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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 22 November 2024

RD24125Ovarian follicular flushing as a means of increasing oocyte yield and in vitro embryo production in cattle

R. J. Simmons 0000-0002-2422-6480, D. A. R. Tutt, W. Y. Kwong, J. I. Baroni, L. N. Lim, R. Cimpeanu, A. A. Castrejon-Pita, M. Vatish, P. Svensson, R. Piegsa, U. Hagby, K. D. Sinclair 0000-0002-6375-215X and E. X. Georgiou
 

Image of the novel 16G double-lumen needle (‘OxIVF’), showing how it flushes laterally to the needle shaft.

The number of oocytes retrieved during assisted reproduction is a key determinant of success in both cattle and humans. Ovarian follicular flushing is not practised in cattle but offers the prospect of increasing oocyte yield and number of transferrable embryos. We determined that a ‘hybrid’ approach of flushing larger follicles and aspirating smaller follicles has potential in this regard. These findings serve as an impetus for follow-up studies in human and equine assisted reproduction. Image provided by authors.

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

RD24125 Abstract  | PDF (1.7 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 28 October 2024

RD24101Chronic psychosocial stress affects insulin-like growth factor 1 and its receptors in mouse ovaries

Tatyana Igonina 0000-0003-0360-9359, Daria Lebedeva, Anton Tsybko, Irina Rozhkova, Tatyana Babochkina, Alisa Levinson and Sergei Amstislavsky
 

Diagram showing the revealed effects of psychosocial stress on the female reproductive system of mice

Psychosocial stress negatively affects the female reproductive system. Our study elucidates the mechanisms of these effects and addresses the possibility of alleviating the effects of stress on the ovary through reproductive technology as gonadotropin stimulation. The results of our study highlight intraovarian insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) as a target for therapeutic intervention, providing a novel approach to improve fertility, particularly under the conditions associated with chronic psychosocial stress. Image by authors.

RD24101 Abstract  | PDF (1.6 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 16 September 2024

RD24033Alpha-synuclein expression in GnRH neurons of young and old bovine hypothalami

Yvan Bienvenu Niyonzima, Yuuki Asato, Tomoaki Murakami and Hiroya Kadokawa 0000-0002-8454-9601
 

A scheme depicting a young GnRH neuron (left) and an old GnRH neuron (right), both with different α-synuclein presence.

In our investigation into age-related infertility, we examined the presence of α-synuclein, a protein associated with brain aging, particularly in gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons in hypothalami. Contrasting samples from young and old cows, we observed significant differences in α-synuclein levels across the specific hypothalamus regions linked to reproductive function. These findings suggest that α-synuclein may play a pivotal role in the mechanisms underlying age-related infertility, paving the way for further inquiries into potential therapeutic avenues in reproductive health. Image by Hiroya Kadokawa.

RD24033 Abstract  | PDF (6.4 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 13 September 2024

RD24129Efficiency of the zinc chelator 1,10-phenanthroline for assisted oocyte activation following ICSI in pigs

Olinda Briski, Juan P. Cabeza 0000-0003-4117-2610, Daniel F. Salamone 0000-0003-0858-0313, Rafael Fernández-Martin and Andrés Gambini 0000-0002-3652-2068
 

Image illustrating the exciting future of pig embryo development for agriculture and biomedical research.

Improving pig embryo development holds great promise for agriculture and biomedical research. This study investigated the use of a zinc chelator, 110-phenanthroline, to enhance assisted oocyte activation in pigs following intracytoplasmic sperm injection. While no differences in embryo development or quality were found, this indicates that zinc chelation is a potentially safe method for inducing oocyte activation, providing a foundation for future advancements in human and animal assisted reproductive research. Image generated by ChatGPT-4 (OpenAI, 2024).

RD24129 Abstract  |  RD24129 Full Text  | RD24129PDF (1 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 12 September 2024

RD24134Spermatology and testis biology – honouring the contributions of James M. Cummins

Marc Yeste 0000-0002-2209-340X and Graeme B. Martin 0000-0002-1905-7934
 

This collection 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 teacher, was most profound. As a core member of the Editorial Board of Reproduction, Fertility and Development, for a series of Editors-in-Chief, he was a font of wisdom for all aspects of the field, including reproductive technology in humans, and acted as a guardian of editorial principles and ethics.

This article belongs to the Collection Dedication to Jim Cummins.

RD24134 Abstract  |  RD24134 Full Text  | RD24134PDF (269 KB)

Published online 12 September 2024

RD24049High and low performing sires differ in their contributions to early embryonic stress in the bovine

Lindsey Fallon, Kelsey N. Lockhart, Thomas E. Spencer and M. Sofia Ortega 0000-0003-4027-7314
 

Illustration of influence of sire on early embryonic development under normal and stress conditions.

Understanding how a sire influences early embryo survival, especially in dairy cattle, can enhance dairy industry efficiency and offer insights for other mammals. Investigating cellular stress in early embryos, this study found that low-performing sires, despite fertilising oocytes equally, may cause lower survival rates in the embryo’s first week due to increased cellular stress mechanisms. Identifying this phenomenon sheds light on malfunctioning cellular mechanisms regulated by the sire, ultimately reducing embryo survival. Image by Lindsey Fallon.

This article belongs to the Collection Dedication to Jim Cummins.

RD24049 Abstract  | PDF (3.5 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 09 September 2024

RD24002Exploring the impact of seminal anti-PSA antibodies on semen parameters: a comparative study

Naina Kumar 0000-0002-5970-6935, Labanyamoy Kole, K. N. Deepthi, Seetesh Ghose and Rahul Narang
 

Illustration of use of anti-prostate-specific antigen antibodies in predicting male infertility.

Globally, male factor infertility is increasing and so is the need for newer and effective tests for its diagnosis and management. The present study was conducted to evaluate the impact of seminal anti-prostate-specific antibodies (PSA) antibodies on semen parameters in fertile and infertile men. A significant negative correlation was observed with sperm concentration, motility, and morphology, and a positive correlation was observed with grade D motility. The overall accuracy of anti-PSA antibodies in predicting infertile from fertile men was 63.33%. Image by Naina Kumar.

RD24002 Abstract  | PDF (453 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 02 September 2024

RD24083Genetic regulation of ovulation rate and multiple births

G. W. Montgomery 0000-0002-4140-8139
 

A scheme depicting mutation screening (left) and genetic association (right).

Genetic studies have discovered multiple mutations and genetic risk factors that have helped to understand how ovulation rate is controlled in low ovulating species to regulate the numbers of offspring and maximise reproductive success. Most genes identified are from pathways with defined roles in regulation of the ovarian follicle development. Continued genetic studies can continue to improve detailed understanding of the regulation of ovulation rate and litter size with implications for health and animal production systems. Image by G. W. Montgomery.

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

RD24083 Abstract  |  RD24083 Full Text  | RD24083PDF (1004 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 12 August 2024

RD24029Punicalagin increases follicular activation, development and activity of superoxide dismutase 1, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase 1 in cultured bovine ovarian tissues

Vitória S. Bezerra, Francisco C. Costa, Francisco F. Caetano Filho, José J. N. Costa, Miguel F. de Lima Neto, Cristiana L. M. Furtado, Vânia M. Ceccatto, Valdevane R. Araújo and José R. V. Silva 0000-0002-5970-6177
 

From left to right: a structure of punicalagin molecule, image of ovarian cortex tissue, a list of punicalagin effects.

The in vitro overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) impairs follicular growth and survival. This study evaluated the effects of punicalagin on growth and survival of primordial follicles, stromal cells, collagen fibres, levels of mRNA and activity of antioxidant enzymes in cultured bovine ovarian tissues. The results showed that punicalagin improved follicle survival and development, and reduced mRNA levels for SOD1 and CAT. Punicalagin 10.0 μM increased the levels of thiol and activity of SOD1, CAT and GPX1 enzymes. Image by V. S. Bezerra.

RD24029 Abstract  | PDF (2.2 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 02 August 2024

RD23214Pathogenetic role of a number of factors in the development and progression of preeclampsia with varying severity in pregnant women

Irina Ismailova 0009-0005-7039-2876, Yulia Zame, Moldir Akhmedzhanova, Kuanysh Sultanov and Galiya Tanzharykova
 

Illustration showing the symptoms and outcomes of preeclampsia.

Preeclampsia is one of the common complications of pregnancy, posing a significant risk to the life and health of the pregnant woman and fetus, which is why it is so important to achieve predictability and determine the risks of the disease. This research aims to determine the pathogenetic role of several factors in the development of preeclampsia and its progression in association with the severity of pregnant patients. Sixty pregnant women diagnosed with preeclampsia, both mild and severe, were enrolled. Forty healthy pregnant women were also studied for comparison. Image by Irina Ismailova.

RD23214 Abstract  | PDF (327 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 01 August 2024

RD24079ShinySperm: navigating the sperm proteome landscape

David A. Skerrett-Byrne 0000-0002-1804-1826, Raffaele Teperino 0000-0001-8815-1409 and Brett Nixon 0000-0003-2745-8188
 

ShinySperm app logo.

Understanding complex biological data is crucial for advancements in reproductive biology. Our study developed ShinySperm, a web application that allows researchers to easily explore, interrogate, and visualise intricate sperm proteomic data. This tool sets out a blueprint for future research, enabling researchers to bring their intricate datasets to life, allowing others to interact with and interpret more effectively, ultimately driving innovation in reproductive biology. Image by David Skerrett-Byrne.

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

RD24079 Abstract  |  RD24079 Full Text  | RD24079PDF (1.1 MB)  | RD24079Supplementary Material (746 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 29 July 2024

RD24027The role of asprosin in regulating ovarian granulosa- and theca-cell steroidogenesis: a review with comparisons to other adipokines

Excel Rio S. Maylem, Luis Fernando Schütz and Leon J. Spicer 0000-0003-2911-6130
 

A diagram showing a summary of the review of effects of adipokines on ovarian function.

Adipose tissues produce a variety of biologically active compounds including adipokines, which function as endocrine hormones that are linked to various metabolic and reproductive diseases. The goal of this review was to provide an up-to-date summary of the role of some of these adipokines in mammalian reproduction and how they regulate ovarian steroid production. Understanding the effects of these adipokines on ovarian function will help formulate solutions for improved reproductive efficiency. Image by Leon Spicer.

RD24027 Abstract  | PDF (1.1 MB) - $35.00 
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 

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

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Collections

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

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: 22 Nov 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

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

This collection of Reproduction, Fertility and Development contains papers by early-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: 01 Aug 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

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