IBN-9511971 Clemens, Lynwood G. Reproductive success in most species depends on both humoral and neural responses acting coordinately. The majority of studies have focused on the male as the critical component for determining successful outcomes, however, female reproductive tract function is also significant, and yet underinvestigated. In the present work, Dr. Clemens will focus on the effects of hormones on uterine contractions and the role of these contractions in the initiation of pregnancy. By recording electrical activity of uterine muscles, it will be possible to determine what stimuli are important for the induction of uterine activity around the time of ovulation and whether these responses are associated with the release of hormones from the ovary involved in the initiation of pregnancy. The experiments will provide new and exciting information on the role of the female reproductive system in pregnancy initiation and reproductive success in mammals.
