Redbiolab presents:

Genome edited mouse lines define mechanisms mediating gamete recognition in human fertilization

Mammalian fertilization requires sperm binding to the zona pellucida, an extracellular glycoprotein matrix that surrounds ovulated eggs. Despite decades of investigation, the molecular basis of sperm binding to the zona remains incompletely understood. Using mouse genetics, we have demonstrated the essential role of a single zona pellucida (ZP) domain of ZP2 in mouse and human gamete recognition (Avella et al., J. Cell Biol.  205:801-809, 2014). These results have forced reevaluation of a widely embraced paradigm in which O-glycans on ZP3 acted as the ligand for sperm binding and fertilization. To translate this newly acquired knowledge to reproductive medicine, we have used the recombinant ZP2 domain expressed in insect cells to decoy sperm in the mouse uterus, which provides non-hormonal and reversible contraception. Using the same recombinant domain, we have also established an assay to select sperm for assisted reproductive technologies (Avella et al., Sci. Transl. Med.  336: 336ra60, 2016). Unveiling the molecular mechanisms mediating mammalian fertilization is crucial to develop novel contraceptive agents and fertility treatments in reproductive medicine or to implement new technologies in animal breeding.

Matteo Avella, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor

The University of Tulsa

Department of Biological Science

College of Engineering and Natural Sciences

Tulsa, OK, USA

Email maa8422@utulsa.edu

Website: www.avellalab.com

9 July, Room 11, 10.00 am, via Celoria 10, Milano.

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