Reproductive and Developmental Sciences

University Of Washington, Seattle WA

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

DIVISION OF REPRODUCTIVE AND DEVELOPMENTAL SCIENCES PROJECT SUMMARY The overarching goal of the Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences is to develop and use the nonhuman primate as a model to advance prevention strategies, clinical treatments and public health interventions to reduce the burden of disease associated with reproductive and developmental disorders. Studies within the division are focused on the biological expression and treatment of developmental disorders associated with HIV, Fragile X, infantile strabismus, blindness, amblyopia, infection-induced preterm birth and neonatal encephalopathy. Our studies also provide critical data to inform public health strategies to prevent developmental disorders associated with prenatal and early postnatal exposure to environmental chemicals. Advances in any of these high-value research areas have the potential to translate into a reduced number of American children with life-long cognitive and sensory disabilities. For the next 5 years, we plan to build upon our recent successes and expand our research programs, providing greater research and training opportunities for scientists around the world. To achieve the goals of the division, we are proposing the following specific aims: Specific Aim 1) Update the neurodevelopmental assessment battery in the Infant Primate Research Laboratory and expand our in-house research program in visual sciences. In the next grant period, we will collect integrated, real-time simultaneous measurements of cognition (visual recognition memory), eye movements (visual tracking) and electrophysiology (EEGs). Bringing together real-time brain activity measurements with cognition will provide a new pathway for developmental neuroscience with infant macaque monkeys. Specific Aim 2) Expand our in-house research program of developing genetically modified nonhuman primate models of neurodevelopmental and reproductive disorders. Research activities in the Reproductive Biology and Stem Cell Laboratory have identified innovative approaches to improve the efficiency and efficacy of gene- editing techniques. Successful application of gene editing in the nonhuman primate will allow DRDS scientists to develop cellular and whole-animal model systems of neurodevelopmental and reproductive disorders such as Fragile X. Specific Aim 3) Expand our nascent in-house research program in stem cell transplantation therapies. We plan to introduce new nonhuman primate pluripotent stem cell lines with defined molecular and functional capabilities for stem cell transplantation studies. Specific Aim 4) Expand our in-house educational program to provide opportunities for specialized training in nonhuman primate research strategies and protocols. The research conducted by division scientists provides critical training for undergraduate and graduate students, medical school residents and postdoctoral fellows. Opportunities for hands-on research training will continue to be at the center of our educational program.