Collection 

Biology of reproduction

Submission status
Closed
Submission deadline

Reproduction involves making quality gametes – egg and sperm – which are essential for species continuity and therefore have huge implications for human health. The quality of the gametes is not only important for successful fertilisation and embryonic development, but also influences the fitness and well-being of the offspring. Thus, the processes of oogenesis and spermatogenesis are carefully monitored by quality control mechanisms, and heavily influenced by factors such as age, metabolic states, DNA integrity, diet, temperature and so on. In addition, seminal fluid proteins (SFPs), transferred alongside sperm to the female reproductive tract during mating, influence sperm function and the female reproductive system.

This Collection welcomes any submissions that push forward our understanding of reproduction and its impact on offspring in both model organisms and human studies. We welcome studies that shed light on the molecular and cellular mechanisms of how stressors (environmental, cellular, metabolic, emotional etc.) affect gamete formation, SFPs and offspring health, and possible interventions that can improve reproductive health. Alongside original research Articles, we will also consider Reviews, Perspectives and Comments covering these topics. All submissions will be subject to the same review process as regular Communications Biology Articles.

Representation of fertilisation, showing sperm marathon to fertilise the egg

Editors

Articles