Research

To gain initial insights into this process, we have developed a three-dimensional cell-engineered system that closely recapitulates the cytoarchitecture of the human endometrium. For the first time, this model system presents a unique opportunity to investigate the process of human implantation in vitro. Our goal is to study the mechanobiology and key features of tissue receptivity of the mid-secretory phase of the menstrual cycle that support successful implantation.

Furthermore, our laboratory is focused on investigating the complex crosstalk between the developing embryo and the maternal environment that is established at implantation. Our research objectives are to elucidate the cellular behavior, adhesion, invasion, and interactions between the embryo and maternal tissue, and to employ single-cell technologies to profile the molecular crosstalk at the implantation niche. By studying what goes wrong at the embryo-maternal interface, we aim to gain critical insights into the molecular causes underlying implantation failure and early pre-clinical miscarriages.

Finally, a crucial objective of our research is to develop therapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing the success of embryo implantation. We aspire to overcome the clinically observed implantation barrier, through our efforts to identify molecular targets associated with successful implantation, thereby improving the success rates of pregnancies following IVF procedures and increasing the likelihood of healthy live births.