Professor Andrés López Bernal is heading basic research in Obstetrics & Gynaecology as non-clinical Professor in Human Reproductive Biology and has current interests in Parturition and Ovarian Function.
Dr Kate Whittington is Lecturer in Reproduction & Development with laboratory based activity in the Dorothy Hodgkin Building and has current interests in Andrology, specifically prostate disease.
Dr Susan Glew, Consultant Senior Lecturer in Obstetrics & Gynaecology and has current interests in ….
Dr David Cahill, Reader in Reproductive Medicine, has previously worked in aspects of the fertility problems associated with endometriosis, and is currently involved in collaborative projects with Dr Patrick Horner in Sexual Health.
Our research concerns the adaptation of the human uterus to pregnancy and the prevention of prematurity, aiming to reduce the damaging impact of preterm birth (through the European Parturition Group). Preterm labour is the major cause of perinatal mortality and neurological disability in the surviving infants, but it is difficult to predict. Current medications for preterm labour are inefficient or have serious maternal or fetal side effects. We are investigating the role of oxytocin and prostaglandins in regulating the contractility of the uterus. In order to predict preterm labour and identify women at risk, we are searching for potential biomarkers among proteins, peptides and other molecules released from the feto-placental unit into the maternal circulation. We hope to provide better understanding of pregnancy maintenance and the mechanism of parturition, and new approaches for pharmacological intervention in preterm labour.