EMBRYO BIOTECHNOLOGY

The aim is to use animal models for clarifying and addressing human reproduction issues and embryo technology methods for the preservation of endangered species.

We focus on developing new embryo technology and preservation of biological material from animals in the “genetic resource” category. The methods include namely the micro-handling of reproductive cells and embryos, derivation of stem cells, epigenetic characterisation of embryos and preservation of biological material using non-conventional methods. Methods are being developed through trials on animal models which could increase the efficiency of human assisted reproduction.

REGULATION AND MATURING OF MAMMALIAN OOCYTES

The aim is to produce high quality oocytes for the reproduction biotechnology purposes.

Research in the reproduction of farm animal females has two main directions: the first follows the direction of gaseous signalling molecules, so-called gas transmitters, on the maturing and fertilisation of mammalian oocytes; the second is concerned with the negative impacts of environmental pollutants on the mammalian oocyte quality. We pay special attention to agents capable of upsetting the hormonal balance of the organism, so-called endocrine disruptors.