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Reproduction, Fertility and Development

Reproduction, Fertility and Development

Reproduction, Fertility and Development publishes research and reviews on all aspects of vertebrate reproduction and developmental biology. Read more about the journalMore

Editors-in-Chief: Graeme Martin and Jenny Juengel

Publishing Model: Hybrid. Open Access options available.

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Latest

These articles are the latest published in the journal. Reproduction, Fertility and Development is published under a continuous publication model. More information is available on our Continuous Publication page.

Published online 10 June 2025

RD24193Hormonal and cytomorphological influences on the primary and secondary sex ratio in mammals

Ana Martins-Bessa 0000-0002-9566-3100, Laura Haig, Angus D. Macaulay, Winnie Chen, Salma Askar and Pawel M. Bartlewski 0000-0003-2731-9137
 

Diagram summarising potential stressors that may affect the sex of mammalian offspring.

This review explores how hormones may influence the sex of mammalian offspring. Researchers examined how natural hormones and hormonal treatments around fertilization and during early pregnancy could affect sex ratios. Although hormonal manipulations offer a potentially sustainable way to influence offspring sex, they remain less reliable than currently used methods such as sperm sorting or embryo selection. Image by P. Bartlewski.

RD24193 Abstract  | PDF (2.9 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 05 June 2025

RD24191The impact of GnRH immunocastration on colonic microbiota and metabolites in male sheep

Shehr Bano Mustafa, Hua Long, Tianzeng Song, Xiaoming Zhang, Yangzong Zhaxi, Jing Wu, Xiaoying Chen, Khuram Shahzad, Xunping Jiang, Guiqiong Liu, Xianyin Zeng and Wangsheng Zhao 0000-0002-6339-329X
 

Illustration of GnRH immunocastration effect on microbiota and metabolism in Xizang sheep

This study explores the impact of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) immunocastration on colonic microbiota and metabolites in male Xizang sheep. GnRH immunocastration effectively reduced testosterone levels, influenced microbial composition by increasing Bacteroidetes and beneficial genera like Bacteroides, and altered key metabolites such as methyl stearate and bile acids. These findings highlight GnRH immunocastration as a humane alternative to surgical castration, with improves animal welfare, nutrient absorption, and metabolic efficiency. Image by Shehr Bano Mustafa.

RD24191 Abstract  | PDF (2.8 MB) - $35.00   | RD24191Supplementary Material (411 KB)
Published online 02 June 2025

RD25045Advancements in microfluidic and electrophoretic techniques for stallion sperm isolation

Ashlee Medica 0000-0001-7270-9316, R. John Aitken, Aleona Swegen and Zamira Gibb 0000-0002-4864-8880
 

Illustrated summary of sperm isolation techniques and their potential to improve equine fertility outcomes

Assisted reproductive technologies like artificial insemination help address equine infertility, but selecting high-quality sperm beforehand can further boost fertility rates. Traditional methods like centrifugation may damage sperm DNA, whereas newer techniques – microfluidics (using tiny fluid channels to filter healthy sperm) and electrophoresis (sorting sperm by electric charge) – offer gentler alternatives. Innovations like VetMotl™ and Felix™ enhance sperm selection, improving pregnancy outcomes. While cost of these devices remains a challenge, ongoing research could make these advancements more accessible for equine breeding. Illustration by Ashlee Medica.

This article belongs to the collection: Frontiers in Reproduction Science – Rising Stars at the Society for Reproductive Biology 2024.

RD25045 Abstract  |  RD25045 Full Text  | RD25045PDF (308 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 29 May 2025

RD24194Obesity induced by a high-fat diet is associated with changes in the expression levels of Dnmt3b and Dnmt3l proteins in mouse testes

Nazlican Bozdemir 0000-0001-9110-4267, Gozde Sukur 0000-0003-1957-551X, Tuba Kablan 0009-0007-5107-472X, Ozgur Cinar 0000-0003-2901-1910 and Fatma Uysal 0000-0002-9176-326X
 

A diagram showing the effect of high-fat diet on spermatogenesis in mice.

Obesity is a major health problem that can affect many parts of the body, including the reproductive system. This study examined how a high-fat diet can affect proteins potentially responsible for sperm production in mice. It was found that this diet led to changes in proteins called DNA methyltransferases, which can affect how other genes function through a process known as epigenetics. This suggests that obesity may contribute to male infertility by altering the epigenetic processes involved in sperm development. Image by authors using Biorender.com.

RD24194 Abstract  | PDF (3 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 13 May 2025

RD24199The influence of CCN family proteins on ovarian physiology and pathology

El Arbi Abulghasem 0009-0004-4909-6557 and Christopher A. Price 0000-0002-6727-8280
 

Diagram depicting known and potential roles of CCN proteins in ovarian function.

Infertility in women has been associated with increased ovarian fibrosis with age, and failure to ovulate an egg in conditions such as polycystic ovarian disease. Fibrosis can be increased by certain growth factors, such as the CCN proteins, which may also be involved in inflammatory processes leading to ovulation. This review summarized the known effects of CCN proteins in ovarian function, and proposes a role in ovulation. Image made in BioRender.

This article belongs to the collection: The biology of the ovary – Honouring the contributions of Ken P McNatty and Rex J Scaramuzzi.

RD24199 Abstract  | PDF (1.5 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 05 May 2025

RD24118Histomorphometric comparison of the gravid and non-gravid uterus at the time of birth in the tammar wallaby (Macropus eugenii): insights into the embryo-maternal interface

Marie K. Muenzenberger 0009-0009-7111-6039, Karl Klisch, Brandon R. Menzies 0000-0002-1897-0115, Juliane Rieger, Sabine Kaessmeyer and Barbara Drews
 

Sketch of light micrographs of non-gravid endometrium (left) and gravid endometrium (right).

Wallabies require rapid embryonic development as they give birth after a short pregnancy, immediately followed by ovulation. We analyzed and quantified differences between the gravid and the non-gravid uterus, which included a greater blood vessel area and increased surface area in the gravid endometrium and investigated the features ensuring the most efficient embryo-maternal exchange, such as polyploidy of trophoblast cells. However, these adaptations seem to be self-limiting making birth at the designated time inevitable. Image by Marie Muenzenberger.

RD24118 Abstract  |  RD24118 Full Text  | RD24118PDF (4.1 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 05 May 2025

RD24149Is preovulatory follicle selection influenced by the production of oocyte-secreted factors?

Nicholas J. Anderson 0009-0009-8393-1073 and Michael W. Pankhurst 0000-0002-0976-5742
 

A diagram showing morphogenetic gradients of oocyte-secreted factors.

A very small proportion of eggs in the ovaries are ever ovulated but it is not known how the ovary chooses which eggs ovulate. We discuss the evidence that high-quality eggs produce signals that increase their rate of maturation allowing them to win the race to ovulate. If the ovary can detect which eggs are good quality, then it might be possible to adapt this to improve treatment in fertility clinics. Image by Michael Pankhurst.

This article belongs to the collection: The biology of the ovary – Honouring the contributions of Ken P McNatty and Rex J Scaramuzzi.

RD24149 Abstract  |  RD24149 Full Text  | RD24149PDF (885 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 29 April 2025

RD24161Spermatogenic cell apoptosis and impaired spermatogenesis in prepubertal mice: time- and dose-dependent toxicity of silver nanoparticles

Zannatul Maowa, Md. Sharifur Rahman, M. Nazmul Hoque, Md. Abdullah Al Mahmud and Mohammad Shah Alam 0000-0003-2657-9121
 

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The increasing use of nanoparticles, especially silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), in various consumer, agricultural, and pharmaceutical applications has raised considerable concern about their potential risks to human health. However, the progressive toxic effects of AgNPs in mouse testes after single and repeated exposure are still unclear. The present observations show that AgNPs caused potential adverse effects on the testis, specifically, spermatogenic cell apoptosis, impaired spermatogenesis, and reduced testicular testosterone concentrations in an exposure time- and dose-dependent manner. Image by Mohammad Shah Alam.

RD24161 Abstract  | PDF (2 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 28 April 2025

RD24174Expression of platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) ligands and receptors in the ovine ovary and effects of PDGFBB on granulosa cell function

Peter Smith, Karen L. Reader 0000-0002-5253-0666, Michelle C. French, Peter R. Hurst and Jennifer L. Juengel 0000-0002-2717-7311
 

Schematic summarising the localisation of PDGF and its effect on progesterone and thymidine in the sheep follicle.

Regulated growth and development of ovarian follicles are important for fertility, and locally produced factors are key regulators of these processes. We investigated whether locally produced platelet derived growth factors (PDGF) play an important role in the growth and function of ovine follicles. Multiple PDGF ligands, as well as their receptors, were expressed in developing follicles, and PDGFBB altered key follicular functions, indicating these growth factors are important for the regulation of growth and development of ovarian follicles in sheep. Image by Jennifer Juengel.

This article belongs to the collection: The biology of the ovary – Honouring the contributions of Ken P McNatty and Rex J Scaramuzzi.

RD24174 Abstract  |  RD24174 Full Text  | RD24174PDF (7.8 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 07 April 2025

RD25012Sperm morphology of the Australasian hydromyine rodents and the interactions between the spermatozoon and oocyte at the time of fertilisation

William G. Breed 0000-0003-1739-6593, Chris M. Leigh, Emily Roycroft and Ingrid Ahmer
 

Two photographs of plains mice, Pseudomys australis.

We give a brief overview of sperm–egg interactions at the time of fertilisation in an Australian hydromyine rodent, the Plains Mouse Pseudomys australis emphasising the unique features of its spermatozoon: the presence of two ventral processes. These may be the most morphologically complex sperm to have evolved in eutherian mammals, and may have evolved in an early common ancestor of the hydromyine rodents several million years ago. These ventral processes may facilitate the binding of the spermatozoon to the zona pellucida of the ovulated egg to maximise the chances of fertilisation. Photographs by William Breed.

RD25012 Abstract  |  RD25012 Full Text  | RD25012PDF (6.9 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 01 April 2025

RD25023Accuracy and errors about the human ovary; the good, bad and the ugly

Raymond J. Rodgers 0000-0002-2139-2969 and Jeffrey B. Kerr
 

Diagram showing how early follicle development is often portrayed in textbooks, as compared to in published research.

Textbooks, websites and YouTube videos present misinformation about the ovary with statements and illustrations that are patently inaccurate or incorrect. Even multiple edition textbooks still have major misleading inaccuracies occurring in text and illustrations. Amongst other inaccuracies many report that the prepubertal human ovary is dormant and that a human primordial follicle grows into preovulatory follicles during the course of the follicular phase of 14 days. How did we get here and more importantly how can it be rectified? Diagram byProfessor Jeffrey B. Kerr.

This article belongs to the collection: The biology of the ovary – Honouring the contributions of Ken P McNatty and Rex J Scaramuzzi.

RD25023 Abstract  |  RD25023 Full Text  | RD25023PDF (1.6 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 28 March 2025

RD24151The role of extracellular vesicles in embryo development: implications for reproductive health and therapeutic potential

Seok Hee Lee 0000-0002-4656-1618
 

Schematic illustration showing the therapeutic effects of extracellular vesicles on reproductive disorders.

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are tiny but powerful players in the complex process of embryo development, carrying crucial information between cells. This review highlights how these vesicles influence key stages of development, from fertilization to organ formation, and how abnormalities in their function could lead to developmental disorders. Understanding the role of EVs not only deepens our knowledge of early life but also opens new avenues for treating infertility and related conditions. Image by Seok Hee Lee.

RD24151 Abstract  | PDF (642 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 18 March 2025

RD24162Seminal fluid effects on uterine receptivity to embryo implantation: transcriptomic strategies to define molecular mechanisms

Hon Y. Chan 0000-0001-9841-2094 and Sarah A. Robertson 0000-0002-9967-0084
 

Transcriptomic changes in the uterus driven by seminal fluid intromission which influences embryo implantation success

Establishing uterine receptivity to embryo implantation remains a major bottleneck in reproductive success – hence there is a need to better understand the underpinning biological mechanisms. This review summarises and integrates insights gained from gene expression studies that collectively demonstrate seminal fluid drives uterine immune and vascular changes accompanying acquisition of uterine receptivity. Defining the impact of seminal fluid on implantation biology will help us to better understand the determinants of healthy fertility, and develop novel interventions for managing reproduction in humans and animals. Illustration by Hon Y. Chan and Sarah A. Robertson using BioRender.

This article belongs to the collection: Frontiers in Reproduction Science – Rising Stars at the Society for Reproductive Biology 2023.

RD24162 Abstract  |  RD24162 Full Text  | RD24162PDF (482 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 06 March 2025

RD24164Maternal aging reduces female fecundity and alters offspring phenotype in a sex-specific manner

Macarena B. Gonzalez 0000-0002-6567-938X, Eryk Andreas, Yasmyn E. Winstanley 0000-0002-0196-0965, Haley S. Connaughton, Karagh E. Loring, Cheryl Shoubridge 0000-0002-0157-3084 and Rebecca L. Robker 0000-0002-1538-4604
 

Diagram summarising the effects of maternal aging on fecundity and offspring phenotype.

More couples are delaying childbearing, which unfortunately can negatively influence the health of their child. Using reproductively old mice at 12 months old, we examined the characteristics of the offspring of older mothers at birth, and then followed them to adulthood and measured markers of adult health, namely growth, glucose tolerance, immune function and behaviour. This study provides insights into how maternal age influences the health and development of their offspring. Image by Macarena B. Gonzalez.

This article belongs to the collection: Frontiers in Reproduction Science – Rising Stars at the Society for Reproductive Biology 2023.

RD24164 Abstract  |  RD24164 Full Text  | RD24164PDF (533 KB)   Open Access Article

Just Accepted

These articles have been peer reviewed and accepted for publication. They are still in production and have not been edited, so may differ from the final published form.

Most Read

The Most Read ranking is based on the number of downloads in the last 60 days from papers published on the CSIRO PUBLISHING website within the last 12 months. Usage statistics are updated daily.

Collections

Collections are a curation of articles relevant to a topical research area

Frontiers in Reproduction Science – Rising Stars at the Society for Reproductive Biology 2024

This collection of Reproduction, Fertility and Development contains papers by early- and mid-career researchers who presented at the annual meeting of the Society for Reproductive Biology (SRB) in November 2024. This collection showcases the breadth and depth of research in reproductive biology by emerging researchers in Australia.

Guest Editors
Jenny Juengel (Co-Editor-in-Chief, Reproduction, Fertility and Development)
Graeme Martin (Co-Editor-in-Chief, Reproduction, Fertility and Development)
Ellen Menkhorst (SRB-RFD Liaison, Society for Reproductive Biology)

Last Updated: 03 Jun 2025

The biology of the ovary – Honouring the contributions of Ken P McNatty and Rex J Scaramuzzi

This collection of Reproduction, Fertility and Development celebrates the work of Rex Scaramuzzi and Ken McNatty, both of whom were passionate about the field of reproductive biology. The papers were written by colleagues, collaborators and friends, and cover a variety of topics, but with a focus on the functions of the ovary in livestock, where their impact was most profound.

Collection Editors
Jenny Juengel (Co-Editor-in-Chief, Reproduction, Fertility and Development)
Graeme Martin (Co-Editor-in-Chief, Reproduction, Fertility and Development)

Last Updated: 13 May 2025

Frontiers in Reproduction Science – Rising Stars at the Society for Reproductive Biology 2023

This collection of Reproduction, Fertility and Development contains papers by early- and mid-career researchers who presented at the annual meeting of the Society for Reproductive Biology (SRB) in November 2023. This inaugural collection showcases the breadth and depth of research in reproductive biology by emerging researchers in Australia.

Guest Editors
Jenny Juengel (Co-Editor-in-Chief, Reproduction, Fertility and Development)
Graeme Martin (Co-Editor-in-Chief, Reproduction, Fertility and Development)
Caitlin Wyrwoll (SRB-RFD Liaison, Society for Reproductive Biology)

Last Updated: 20 Apr 2025

Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the International Embryo Technology Society, Fort Worth, TX, USA, 18–22 January 2025

This collection of Reproduction, Fertility and Development contains full papers and abstracts from the 2025 IETS annual conference. The content focuses on this year’s conference theme of 'Emerging technologies for healthy reproduction and sustainability'.

This collection was published for the International Embryo Technology Society by CSIRO Publishing.

Edited on behalf of the Society by Program Co-Chairs
Paula Rodriguez-Villamil (Genus plc, DeForest, WI, USA)
Kiho Lee (University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA)

Last Updated: 03 Mar 2025

Non-photoperiodic Actions of Melatonin

Historically, melatonin has been seen as a pineal hormone that plays one essential role – the synchronisation of reproductive and other brain-controlled functions with changes in photoperiod. Often driven by the detection of melatonin receptors in non-brain tissues, it has become clear that melatonin plays a much wider variety of roles in the function of the testis, sperm, ovary, follicles, oocyte, embryo, placenta, fetus and mammary gland. This Collection presents this broader view of melatonin biology, and how the new concepts can be applied to livestock production.

Collection Editors
Alfonso Abecia, Guest Editor (Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Spain)
Graeme B. Martin, Co-Editor-in-Chief (Reproduction Fertility and Development)

Last Updated: 06 Dec 2024

Dedication to Jim Cummins

This collection of Reproduction, Fertility and Development celebrates the important contributions James (Jim) Michael Cummins made to the field of reproductive biology. It covers a variety of topics but with a clear focus on spermatology where Jim’s impact, as a scientist and a teacher, was most profound.

Collection Editors
Marc Yeste, Guest Editor (University of Girona, Spain)
Graeme B. Martin, Co-Editor-in-Chief (Reproduction Fertility and Development)

Last Updated: 14 Oct 2024

Celebrating 30 Years of Excellence: Reproduction, Fertility and Development

In 2018, Reproduction, Fertility and Development celebrated 30 years of publication and we recognised this milestone with this Collection of papers. Papers were selected based on hard data (citations and downloads) but we also chose papers that reflect other criteria: landmarks in important aspects of reproductive biology; recognition of an influential individual; showcasing the breadth of the journal’s output (species studied; the stages in the process of reproduction); balance between biology and technology; and the international nature of contributors to the journal.

Collection Editor
Graeme Martin

Last Updated: 19 Jul 2018

World Congress of Reproductive Biology Showcase

Compiled to coincide with the World Congress of Reproductive Biology in Edinburgh, Scotland (2–4 September 2014), this Collection features publications from Congress speakers and on topics relevant to delegates. Comprising recent reviews and original research, the collection highlights significant contributions in the field of vertebrate reproductive biology.

Last Updated: 28 Aug 2014

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