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Endocrinology, Metabolomics and Andrology

Aveiro University

Aveiro University, Portugal

The Sertoli Cell and Gamete Biology Lab (SCGB), led by Marco G. Alves, is dedicated to investigating the intricate relationship between metabolism and fertility. Our research focuses on unraveling the molecular mechanisms through which metabolic health, endocrine signals, and environmental cues influence male reproductive function. Specifically, we aim to understand how:
a) Metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes disrupt testicular cell function and impair sperm quality;
b) Hormonal imbalances and signaling pathways affect the complex processes of spermatogenesis and sperm maturation;
c) Environmental factors and lifestyle choices contribute to metabolic disturbances that impact male fertility.

Our research also explores the cutting-edge field of transgenerational inheritance, examining how a father's metabolic health can influence the reproductive potential of future generations. The lab's expertise includes:

Endocrinology
Metabolomics
Andrology

Main Areas of Interest

Metabolic Control of Male Reproduction

Our primary research focus is to explore the ways in which metabolic pathways and energy homeostasis regulate male fertility. We investigate how conditions like diabetes and obesity affect testicular cells and sperm quality, utilizing metabolomics to profile metabolic changes and identify potential therapeutic targets. Our research also extends to understanding how dietary interventions and lifestyle modifications can restore or improve male reproductive health.

Research focus:

Testicular metabolism
Sperm metabolism (metabolic requirements for sperm motility and function)
Metabolic disorders and male infertility (diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome)

Endocrine Regulation of Male Fertility

We examine the role of hormones and endocrine signaling in male reproductive health, focusing on how hormonal imbalances disrupt fertility. Our work includes the study of hormones like insulin, leptin, and adipokines, and the impact of endocrine disruptors on reproductive tissues. We are particularly interested in how hormones interact with metabolic pathways to influence reproductive outcomes.

Research focus:

Hormonal control of spermatogenesis (e.g., feedback mechanisms, hormone receptors in testicular cells)
Endocrine disruptors and male fertility (e.g., effects of environmental chemicals on hormone signaling)
Hormone-metabolism interactions in reproduction (e.g., how insulin resistance affects testicular function)

Transgenerational Inheritance of Metabolic Memory

A pioneering aspect of our research is the study of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance, exploring how a father's metabolic health can influence the reproductive health of his offspring. We investigate how diet and metabolic status affect the sperm epigenome and contribute to the intergenerational transmission of metabolic traits and fertility issues. This work also considers the implications of ancestral exposure to metabolic stressors on the long-term health of future generations.

Research focus:

Sperm epigenetics (DNA methylation, protamines, non-coding RNAs)
Paternal inheritance of metabolic traits (e.g., transmission of obesity risk, altered metabolism)
Impact of ancestral diet on offspring fertility (e.g., effects of high-fat diet exposure across generations)

Additional Information

Our lab also develops and applies cutting-edge metabolomics techniques to identify novel biomarkers for male infertility and to improve assisted reproductive technologies. This involves utilizing advanced analytical tools to profile metabolites in sperm, seminal fluid, and testicular tissues. Our research has also led to the development of patents aimed at improving sperm quality and fertility outcomes. We are committed to translating our findings into practical applications for clinical and reproductive health.

Specialties

Reproductive Medicine

Endocrinology and Diabetes

Techniques You Will Learn

NMR Metabolomics

Sample preparation for various biological samples (media, cells, and tissues)
Operation of NMR spectrometers for metabolomics data acquisition
Advanced spectral analysis techniques for metabolite identification and quantification
Integration of NMR data with other omics datasets

Big Data Analysis

Processing and analysis of metabolomics datasets
Statistical analysis, including Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA)
Generation of heatmaps, pathway analysis, and metabolic maps for data visualization and interpretation
Correlation of metabolomics data with anthropometric and/or clinical data to identify relevant biomarkers

Mitochondrial Physiology and Oxidative Stress

Measurement of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels
Assessment of antioxidant potential in biological samples
Determination of mitochondrial membrane potential using fluorescent probes
Analysis of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex activities

Curriculum

Curriculum
Desk and Equipment Access:

Upon arrival, you will be assigned a user in our University
You will receive login credentials for lab computers and access details for
specialized software and databases.
Ensure to familiarize yourself with the lab's safety protocols and
emergency procedures.
Formation in lab safety and cell culture.

Orientation and Basic Training
Lab Orientation:

Introduction to lab members and overview of ongoing projects.
Tour of the lab facilities, including cell culture rooms, microscopy suites,
and molecular biology workstations.
Overview of lab protocols, data management systems, and ethical
guidelines.
Weekly meetings are organized to discuss the workflow

Basic Training:

Safety training and certification.
Training on specific lab equipment and techniques, such as NMR,
bioinformatics and mitochondria physiology
Introduction to the lab's data management system.

Application to Projects:

Start applying learned techniques to ongoing lab projects.
Work under the supervision of senior researchers to ensure accuracy
and reproducibility.

Independent Research and Collaboration

Independent Research:

Design and conduct your own experiments within the scope of the lab’s
research areas, such as spermatogenesis, steroidogenesis, clinical
applications, metabolomics, big data analysis and transgenerational
impact of male health.
Analyze data and troubleshoot experiments with guidance from senior
lab members.

Collaboration and Co-Authorship:

Collaborate with lab members on larger projects, contributing to
experimental design, data collection, and analysis.
Opportunities for co-authorship on publications if you work in the lab for
12 weeks or more and make significant contributions to the research.

Ongoing Responsibilities and Opportunities
Weekly Lab Meetings:

Present your progress and receive feedback during weekly lab meetings.
Engage in discussions about new research findings and methodologies.

Professional Development:

Attend seminars and workshops offered by the lab and affiliated
institutions.
Explore opportunities for further training in specialized techniques and
methodologies.

Co-Authorship and Networking:

Potential to co-author research papers and present findings at
conferences if you contribute significantly to a project.
Build a professional network by collaborating with other researchers and
participating in academic events

Continuous Learning:

Stay updated with the latest research and advancements in your field of
interest.
Seek mentorship and guidance from senior researchers to advance your
career in stem cell research and therapy.

Accommodation

Accommodation

Our fellows and post-docs can assist you in finding cheaper accommodation or homestay options.

Fees and Program Logistics

This program has the following durations available:

Duration	Fee
2 weeks	$875.00
6 weeks	$1,500.00
12 weeks	$2,750.00

Who Can Apply

Biomedical scientists, Physicans

Host Details

Host Name: Prof. Marco G. Alves

Affiliation: Aveiro University

Address: Address: Department of Medical Sciences, University Campus of Santiago, Health Building, Agra do Crasto, 3810-193 Aveiro,Portgul

Website URL: https://sites.google.com/view/sertolicellgametebiology/home

Disclaimer:It is mandatory that all applicants carry workplace liability insurance, e.g., https://www.protrip-world-liability.com (Erasmus students use this package and typically costs around 5 € per month - please check) in addition to health insurance when you join any of the onsite Trialect partnered fellowships.

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