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Reproductive Medicine Group

Clinical Research Program

Carmen J. Williams, M.D., Ph.D.
Carmen J. Williams, M.D., Ph.D.
Principal Investigator



Tel (919) 541-2158
Fax (919) 541-0696
williamsc5@niehs.nih.gov

Curriculum Vitae (http://www.niehs.nih.gov/research/clinical/program/groups/rm/williams-cv.pdf)  Download Adobe Reader (109K)
P.O. Box 12233
Mail Drop E4-05
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709
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Research Summary

The Reproductive Medicine Group examines the molecular basis of early reproductive events including gamete maturation and function, fertilization, and implantation. For many of these studies, the mouse model system is used because it closely approximates early reproductive processes in the human. For some studies group members are able to use human tissues or gametes to learn directly about human reproduction and human diseases, such as endometriosis, that affect health and fertility. The overall goal of this work is to improve understanding of the basic processes involved in regulating early reproduction and development, and thereby provide a rational scientific basis for improving both human reproductive health and contraceptive options. There is increasing interest in the idea that environmental toxins/endocrine disruptors significantly affect human fertility. The Reproductive Medicine Group will pursue how these agents affect early reproductive events in normal couples and in those with infertility.

Egg with sperm

Major areas of research:

  • Regulation of endometrial function at implantation
  • Effects of environmental toxins on endometrial function
  • Mechanisms of egg activation at fertilization
  • Translational studies of human sperm function

Current projects:

  • Epithelial membrane protein-2 function in human endometrial cells and endometriosis
  • Novel molecular markers of human sperm function
  • Weight loss surgery and male fertility

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Last Reviewed: May 01, 2008