Research

A placental mammalian egg has an unusually thick, elastic, and resilient coat (zona pellucida) compared to non-placental mammals. Mammalian sperm overcame this challenge by evolving a more complex tail capable of hyperactivated motility, a powerful, asymmetric, whip-like motion. Thus, what makes ‘mammalian’ fertilization successful is a fascinating biological question that remains to be thoroughly explored. Sperm cells must adapt to changes in the local environment and respond to cues along the female reproductive tract. Ion channels and membrane receptors enable sperm to respond to the constantly changing environment.

We study cellular signaling through membrane receptors and ion channels that regulate sperm motility and fertility in mammals. We aim to elucidate physiological changes during mammalian fertilization and to better understand the evolution of fertility molecules. To this end, we use mouse and human genetics, comparative genomics and proteomics, biochemistry, and state-of-the-art imaging technologies and other molecular techniques.

Disruption of many of membrane receptors and ion channels leads to infertility in humans. The information gained from our research will improve in vitro fertilization methods and enable new contraceptive approaches. Ultimately, our research will explain the very first life event that enables all subsequent animal physiology. 

Below are our research directions. Click on the picture to read more.

Photo credits: Jean-Ju Chung