Understanding the relationship between the immune and reproductive systems

Sex differences in immune responses are well-established; women generally mount stronger immune responses to infections than men, and both autoimmune disorders and immunotherapy toxicity are predominant in females. But the key factors underlying these sex difference remain unknown. This project aims to improve our understanding of the relationship between the immune system and the female reproductive tract. Studies will focus on number and functions of immune cells in the ovary and uterus and determine how this contributes to female fertility, as well as overall health. This project will employ novel animal models, as well as human samples. We use a variety of techniques including oocyte superovulation, in vitro maturation, in vitro fertilization, flow cytometry, single cell RNA sequencing, qRT-PCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, in situ hybridisation, 3D confocal imaging and ELISA. We also have expertise in the design of long-term fertility trials in mice, as well as analyses of offspring health.