Research

The Bo Yu lab focuses on translational research in reproductive medicine, ovarian physiology and pathology.

Non-invasive genetic testing in gametes and embryos

Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) has made it possible for millions of women and men with reproductive challenges to have babies in the last 40 years.  ART includes the process of ovarian stimulation, oocyte retrieval, in vitro fertilization, embryo culture and transfer, and cryopreservation of gametes and embryos.  In this rapidly evolving field, new technologies are emerging every day to improve the outcomes and success of ART.  We are interested in developing new non-invasive genetic  testing technologies to effectively diagnose genetic diseases in gametes and embryos.

Impact of ART on future generations

ART has been associated with small elevated risks of certain childhood diseases, especially rare imprinting disorders which are linked to DNA methylation changes. With the short history of ART, the impact of various ART procedures on the health of future generations remains uncertain.  We are interested in using epigenomic approach to study the long-term and transgenerational health effect of ART in a mouse model.

Ovarian Carcinogenesis

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological cancer, and its etiology and initiating events remain elusive after decades of research. We plan to investigate potential role of microbiome in ovarian carcinogenesis using patient samples and in vitro organoid model. A better understanding of the pathogenesis of this deadly cancer can hopefully be translated into early detection and prevention in the future.

Fertility in Women with Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders that are associated with a number of health problems. With improvements in therapy, these patients can now survive well into adulthood. Little is known about the ovarian function and fertility in women affected by this disease. We are conducting a clinical study in these women to better understand their ovarian aging and to develop safe fertility preservation strategies.