Cell Signalling

The development, differentiation and physiological function of tissues is controlled by signalling pathways in response to a vast array of stimuli that include hormones, cytokines, growth factors, neurotransmitters and cellular stress.

Research in the IRDB has a strong emphasis on the role of nuclear receptors, growth factors and G-protein-coupled receptors in signalling pathways that control reproduction, embryonic stem cell renewal and differentiation, female malignancies and metabolism.

Each group not only has their own research programme tackling key aspects of signalling control but is also engaged in collaborative projects with scientists and academic clinicians to study the fundamental biological processes and clinical problems related to pregnancy loss, gynaecological cancers, fetal brain disorders and metabolic disorders including polycystic ovary syndrome, cholestasis and obesity.