The primary goal of the laboratory is to understand the biological, cellular, and molecular mechanisms that regulate the reproductive axis. Hormones and locally produced growth factors of the gonads, pituitary, and hypothalamus interact to maintain reproductive cyclicity in the female and tonic sperm production in the male. The integration of endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine signals provides the precision demanded by nature to maintain the germ line of the species.

The study of normal reproduction function requires measurement of fluctuating hormone levels, identification of local factors involved in reproductive management, and an understanding of the signaling mechanisms that cue cellular action. Diseases involving reproductive systems include infertility (male and female), polycystic ovarian disease, endometriosis, premature ovarian failure, preterm labor and delivery, and ovarian, breast, testicular, and prostate cancer.

The specific focus of the laboratory at this time is the female reproductive axis. Our approach requires an integrated view of the axis as a whole; however, emphasis is placed on ovarian-regulated events. We seek to understand the hormonal signals produced by the ovaries, the mechanics of follicular growth, the hormonal and neuronal effectors of follicle selection and maturation, the factors involved in the development of oocytes, the events surrounding follicle wall rupture and wound healing, and the interplay between oocyte and somatic cells. Our scientific approach toward an understanding of ovarian-directed reproductive events is to identify and study factors produced by the ovary which regulate local and distal events.

Dr. Woodruff is Director of one of the National Institute's of Heatlth's Specialized Cooperative Centers Program in Reproduction Research.