Blood Sampling and Hormone Measurement for Determining the Stage in the Ovarian Cycle in Marmosets
July 5th, 2024
This protocol describes blood and urine sampling for measuring progesterone/estradiol and chorionic gonadotropin levels to determine the ovarian cycle stage. The hormone levels are used to predict and determine the timing of ovulation and hormones are injected to regulate the ovarian cycle and oocyte growth.
We are working on two main aspects. First, we aim to understand male germ cells in primates, including humans. We are focusing on spermatogonial stem cells and the establishment of DNA methylation.
Second, we aim to develop new techniques for making genetically modified marmosets. The generation of genetically modified marmosets requires a lot of effort. One of the challenges is developing more efficient method for making genetically modified marmosets.
Our blood sampling protocol makes it easier to find veins and reduce the risk of drawing blood from arteries. Moreover, our protocol also measures three types of hormones and bring more accurate prediction and determination of ovulation date. We are now developing a technique for making sperm from iPS cells in marmosets.
This technique will contribute to the study of germ cells and the generation of genetically modified marmosets.
Overview
This study investigates male germ cells in primates, including humans, focusing on spermatogonial stem cells and their DNA methylation processes. Additionally, the research aims to develop improved methods for creating genetically modified marmosets, which involves a blood sampling protocol that enhances vein access and facilitates hormone level measurements for ovulation prediction.
Key Study Components
Research Area
- Male germ cell biology
- Genetic modification techniques
- Ovarian cycle regulation
Background
- Understanding male germ cells is crucial for reproductive biology.
- Genetically modified marmosets can provide insights into human diseases.
- Accurate ovulation timing assists in reproductive management.
Methods Used
- Blood and urine sampling to measure progesterone, estradiol, and chorionic gonadotropin levels.
- Marmosets as the biological model organism.
- Innovative approaches for observing hormone levels and developing genetically modified organisms.
Main Results
- Improved blood sampling method increased precision in hormone measurement.
- Enhanced predictions for ovulation timing based on hormone levels.
- Progress made in generating sperm cells from iPS cells in marmosets.
Conclusions
- The study demonstrates advancements in understanding male germ cells and enhancing genetic modification techniques.
- These findings have significant implications for reproductive biology and genetic research in primates.
