Research Projects

The ovulatory response is crucial for female reproduction, releasing mature oocytes from their follicular cell layer to fertilize and form the future embryo. Deregulation during this vital phase can lead to anovulation and infertility, prompting the examination of molecular candidates governing the ovulatory response and delineating the underlying signaling cascades. The present proposal focuses on characterizing molecular players at the transcript/protein level and identifying the underlying signaling molecules governing ovulation using zebrafish (Danio rerio) as the ideal top alternative vertebrate model. Meiosis resumption in zebrafish requires several energy-driven processes, including germinal vesicle migration, nuclear membrane dissolution, spindle formation, and first polar body exclusion, followed by ovulation and fertilization. Mitochondrial bioenergetics play a vital role during maturation and ovulation to suffice the metabolic needs of the oocyte and build up an mtDNA reservoir for the future embryo. Despite metabolic disturbances resulting in diminished reproductive potential and impaired fertility in mammalian models, the physiological relevance of oocyte mitochondria for attaining maturational competence and the ability to ovulate remains understudied in fish. The increasing public concerns over the adverse effects of anthropogenic contaminants, especially endocrine disruptors, on human health and aquatic life are a hot debate. Detailed investigation of the ovulatory response from the mitochondrial perspective in fishes will help expand aquaculture commerce and enhance our understanding of anovulation or contraceptive measures in human health.