Laboratory of Reproductive Biology

Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences

Group leader: A/Prof. Katerina Komrskova, Ph.D.

website: https://www.ibt.cas.cz/en/research-laboratories/laboratory-of-reproductive-biology/#program

email: katerina.komrskova@ibt.cas.cz

The Laboratory of Reproductive Biology focuses on both basic and applied research in mammalian reproduction. The group investigates molecular mechanisms of fertilization, key proteins involved in gamete maturation, sperm-egg interaction, and early embryo development. We combine advanced techniques, from 3D molecular analysis to artificial intelligence-driven tools, with the development of innovative assisted reproduction approaches to enhance the selection and quality of gametes and embryos.

One of our research directions addresses the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as mediators of intercellular communication within the reproductive tract. They are involved in gamete maturation, sperm survival within the female reproductive tract, fertilization, and maternal–embryo cross-talk. Our research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of fertilization, with particular emphasis on EVs present in male (seminal plasma, epididymal fluid) and female (oviductal fluid, follicular fluid) reproductive tract secretions. We investigate the macromolecules carried by EVs and their interactions with sperm, as well as the subsequent impact on sperm function and fertilization. In addition to studying EVs from native biological fluids, we are able to generate ex vivo EVs from oviductal epithelial cells, which allows us to obtain higher quantities for functional studies.