This award will support collaborative research between Dr. Beverly Chilton of Texas Tech University and Dr. D. W. Bullock of Lincoln College, Canterbury. One goal of this work is to determine whether prolectin in combination with progesterone alter transformation and modification of uterine cells. More specifically, considering the prolectin/progestrone environment, the investigators intend to isolate a gene (uterglobin) which can transform and modify uterine cells through binding with these cells. The project continues the collaboration of these scientists who have worked on general definition of the mechanisms by which prolactin enhances uterine response to progestrone. The research will benefit from the recent major committment in space and facilities made by Lincoln College to expansion to work in molecular biology. In addition, interaction with investigators in molecular-and endocrine- related areas at Australian instiutions such as DSIR, MAFTech, and the University of Centerbury are anticipated. The research should add considerable to basic knowledge of reproductive physiology, and has the potential of developing into practical applications for regulating uterine fertility.
