The research
This concerns the valid, fast and non-invasive diagnosis of low fertility in men. Our approach is based on the idea that fertility disorders stem from a genetic background, that is to say specific mutations of the genetic material trigger low fertility. The holistic analysis of these mutations and their combinations using contemporary techniques and tools will lead to the building up of a genetic profile for each low fertility category, which thus can be ‘read’ through a simple test. This will be done by simply taking some blood from the man which can then place each man in a sperm category, whether that be healthy or not, according to the genetic profile. The test will be sensitive, will limit the errors by distinguishing between categories and will provide information, not available in current analyses, so as to draw up a plan for carrying out procedures leading to a successful pregnancy.
The research
Embryolab in collaboration with BIOZ (Laboratory of Genetics, Comparative and Evolutionary Biology) of the School of Biochemistry and Biotechnology are undertaking ground-breaking research.
The subject
- The study of genes which correlate with male fertility disorders
- The deep understanding of the genetic basis of spermatogenesis and also the factors which lead to problems.
- The pinpointing of new genes which for the first time are associated with male low fertility.
The objective
- To design specialised diagnostic means
- To reach answers and solutions for diagnosing male low fertility.