Defining the impact of therapeutic agents for endometrial dysfunction on endometrial-embryo interactions

Details

Purpose:

The aim of this project is to study the impact of pharmacological agents on the development and interaction of the endometrium and early embryo around the time of implantation. This is important because the preconception period is likely to be the most appropriate time to treat patients with reproductive dysfunction to try and improve their chances of successful pregnancy.

Background:

During the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, the endometrium differentiates (decidualizes) in preparation for embryo implantation. The decidualized endometrium supports implantation, placentation, and ongoing pregnancy until delivery at term. Endometrial dysfunction has been implicated in recurrent miscarriage, which affects 1-2% of couples and is a sentinel marker for other complications of pregnancy (including pre-eclampsia and pre-term birth), suggesting a shared underpinning mechanism in the aetiology of these conditions. Thus, therapies which could improve endometrial function are of interest.

Pre-conception approaches to treat reproductive dysfunction are proposed to be the most effective route to improve the chances of pregnancy success, aiming to improve endometrial function before pregnancy. However, many pharmacological agents are not licensed for use in pregnancy and their safety in couples trying to conceive has not been examined. Therefore, assessing the impact of proposed pre-conception therapeutic drugs is essential to avoid adverse effects on the establishment of a subsequent pregnancy.

About the project:

Using models of the human endometrium and embryo, this project will explore the effects of proposed pharmacological approaches on endometrial receptivity, embryo development and implantation. The candidate will develop skills in mammalian cell culture, molecular biology (e.g., real-time PCR and next generation sequencing approaches), immunolabelling and image analysis, among other techniques, alongside statistical and bioinformatics approaches to analyse the data.

Entry Requirements:

Candidates must have a first or upper second class honors degree or significant research experience. Ideally candidates should have a relevant background in Reproductive Biology or Pharmacology or related fields.

How to apply:

Please complete a University Postgraduate Research Application form available here: www.shef.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/apply

Please clearly state the prospective main supervisor in the respective box and select 'Oncology and Metabolism' as the department.

Enquiries:

Interested candidates should in the first instance contact Dr Emma Lucas, [email protected]

Proposed start date: 1st October 2024