We aim to optimise gonadal health and fertility for all, thereby enhancing lifelong well-being and reducing health inequalities for women, girls, babies, and society. To achieve this aim, we study three key areas:Fertility and its preservationGonadal development and functionGerm cells, gametes and embryos Fertility preservation Our researchers, focuses and projects Our researchers Principal Investigators: Rod Mitchell, Evelyn Telfer, Richard Anderson, Roseanne RosarioAnderson research groupMitchell research group Research focuses Preserve reproductive potential in those at risk of infertility by harvesting and storing gonadal tissues (testis and ovary) and gametes (eggs, sperm)Develop strategies to restore fertility in people with infertility following gonadotoxic (e.g. cancer) treatmentIdentify new therapies that can prevent infertility Edinburgh Fertility Preservation (EFP) EFP is a network of clinicians and scientists working at the University of Edinburgh and hospitals within Edinburgh. Our aim is to develop procedures for fertility preservation in children and young adults, usually cancer patients, who are due to undergo treatment which may compromise their long-term fertility. Our website provides accurate, accessible information about fertility preservation, aimed at patients and their families, doctors, employers and policy makers. In addition, the website provides resources for educators to facilitate the conversation about fertility preservation for children, young adults and their families to help guide them through their fertility journey. Gonadal development and function Our researchers, focuses and projects Our researchers Principal Investigators: Güneş Taylor, Rod Mitchell, Roseanne Rosario, Colin DuncanMitchell research groupTaylor research group Duncan research group Research focuses Understanding development of the ovaries or testicles during fetal life and how failure of normal development can lead to future medical issues including infertility. Investigating how supporting cells in the developing gonads can become either pre-granulosa or Sertoli cells, which help to form the ovaries or testes respectively. Determining how gonads support the development of the genitals and wider reproductive system, and how Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) affect gonads in fetal life affecting reproductive health in adulthood. Germ cells, gametes and embryos Our researchers, focuses and projects Our researchers Principal Investigators: Nicola Gray, Roseanne Rosario, Rod Mitchell, Evelyn Telfer, Lance LinGray research groupMitchell research groupLin research group Research focuses Understanding development of the testicular germ (stem) cells in relation to the origins of testicular cancer and infertility.Investigating oocyte competence using in vivo and in vitro models to support oocyte development from immature stages.Understanding fertilisation including regulation of oocyte-to-embryo transition and how it impacts on female infertility. Our approaches Building a strong clinical research foundation We have established an extensive bioresource of patient samples, including human fetal, prepubertal and adult gonadal tissues. This unique collection underpins a comprehensive pipeline of translational research involving in vitro culture, xenografting and in-vivo studies through to clinical trials. Engaging with patients and public in development of our research Public and patient engagement is central to our mission and its impact on healthcare and society. We engage with patients and public in research design and we involve patient groups in the development of new treatments and clinical resources to improve the patient journey.Cancer, Fertility and Me Translating research to practise through collaboration and interdisciplinary research Our work is inherently interdisciplinary, bringing together expertise from across the scientific, clinical, and healthcare sectors. By investigating the molecular and cellular mechanisms of gonadal development and dysfunction, we aim to create innovative therapeutic strategies that improve reproductive health. To achieve our goals, we have formed Edinburgh Fertility Preservation which consists of scientists, clinician-scientists, trialists, and research nurses, enabling us to translate research from bench to bedside and beyond. We have strong integration with NHS Lothian, ensuring that our findings are directly relevant to clinical practice.Edinburgh Fertility Preservation Utilising cutting-edge technologies We employ state-of-the-art techniques such as single cell/nucleus and spatial transcriptomics, multiplex immunostaining, digital/partitioning PCR, spectral cytometry and tissue transplantation technologies. These advanced technologies are integral to our research pipeline, helping to drive progress in understanding disease mechanisms and identifying new biomarkers/therapeutic targets.IRR Core Technologies This article was published on 2025-10-06
