Fertility and fertility regulation - studies on human embryo implantation and development of new contraceptive methods and methods for induced abortion.

Reproductive health includes freedom from infertility and safe, effective and acceptable methods for contraception and induced abortion.

This 5-year translational project aims to increase understanding of endometrial function leading to precision medicine based treatments for infertility and fertility regulation.

Using sequencing technology and bioinformatics i) RNAs in uterine fluid and embryo culture media will be identified for non-invasive assessment of endometrium and embryo quality. Today, there is no cure for women with a thin endometrium incapable of supporting pregnancy. Recently, endometrial stromal cells have shown to be crucial in regeneration.

Newly identified specific cell populations will be studied as cell therapy for endometrial repair. ii) We will explore placental function and impact of SARS-CoV-2 iii,iv) Progesterone (P) is a key regulator of endometrial function, implantation and pregnancy maintenance.

Our research on P receptor modulators (PRMs) has resulted in the innovation of medical abortion, and demonstrated the potential of PRM in contraception.

We plan 4 large clinical trials including PRMs for contraception (by endometrial inhibition) and simplified abortion protocols on very early abortion, home induction in 2nd trimester and task shifting from clinicians to women themselves by telemedicine.

The research is translational from bench-to-bed-to-the hands of women with an expected improved reproductive autonomy and health economic impact.