Research Projects
Below are summaries of our main research activities. Further details may be found under the relevant named member of staff.
Developmental Biology
The initiation of the germ cell program involves a complex gene expression dynamic and epigenetic reprogramming of the genome that leads to the acquisition of totipotency in female gametes. We are investigating this natural reprogramming system to elucidate the sequence of events leading to the acquisition of totipotency.
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The development of novel sequencing technologies and the availability of the genome sequences for many farm animal species allows us to investigate the mechanisms involved in the establishment of pluripotency in domestic animal embryos. We are using this knowledge to establish the developmental pathways employed by these mammalian embryos and to develop new strategies for the generation of pluripotent cell lines in farm animals.
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Chromosomal modification during development
Studies to improve cloning efficiency after somatic nuclear transfer are providing information on the epigenetic regulation of early development and cellular differentiation, leading to novel technologies for the development of human cell therapies and applications in other species.
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The discovery that the nucleus from a differentiated mammalian cell can be 'reprogrammed' by amphibian oocyte cytoplasm opens a new approach for the study of the epigenetic chromosomal modifications underlying stem cell generation.
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Studies to facilitate isolation of embryonic stem cells from farm animals are providing a more efficient route for precise genetic modification and the development of clinical models for human and veterinary cell therapies.
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Fetal programming during development as a cause of adult disease
The role of nutrients in modifying expression of genes associated with disease processes and the influence of maternal diet on the subsequent development of disease in the offspring have been elucidated including nutritional programming of epigenetic mechanisms. This is part funded by a ~£10M EU project (EARNEST).
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Reproduction and fertility
BBSRC funded research has shown pig oocyte maturation to be highly temperature sensitive in the physiological range and elucidated the intracellular control mechanisms.
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Key events in early stages of reproduction have been identified in BBSRC and DEFRA funded studies of the regulation of ovarian function and oocyte quality through nutritional manipulation (Webb; Hunter).
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BBSRC funded studies on corpus luteum formation are shedding new light on luteal angiogenesis.
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The roles of hormones in uterine function have been identified as a cause of pregnancy loss.
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Studies on the genetics of fertility have led to a better understanding of the heritability of physiological reproductive traits.
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An understanding of the genetic basis for reproductive seasonality has led to a re-assessment of pig breeding company policy .
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Neuroscience, Membrane Biophysics and Muscle Physiology
Identified opioid-activated pathways, the mediating spinal receptors, and the interactions of these pathways with opioids applied at the spinal level.
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Electrophysiological studies of primary afferent neurones in chronic pain states and possible modulatory effects of peripheral cannabinoid receptor activation.
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Electrophysiological and behavioural studies examining the effects of early life stress on neuronal activity and fear learning and memory in adulthood.
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Dietary effects on animal production and product quality
DEFRA funded work on the role of delta-9 desaturase in regulating tissue/milk fatty acid composition is raising the profile of bovine milk as a 'healthy' product.
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An improved understanding of the nutritional control of factors affecting oocyte quality has led to feeding regimes now being implemented commercially to improve dairy cow fertility.
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Effects of wheat endosperm texture and processing on starch digestibility and gut morphology in piglets have linked in-vivo observations and rheological analyses to generate relationships of commercial value.
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Development of protocols for the liquid feeding of pigs that are now being adopted within the industry, leading to production cost savings of c.14p/kg.
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Bioethics
Social and ethical theme of research projects into sustainable biofuels.
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Systematic consideration of the ethical issues raised by research where dogs are used to piece together the puzzle of human genetic disorders.
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Contributing to the work of the Network of Animal Disease Infectiology Research Facilities ()NADIR) to strengthen the sharing of knowledge, best practice and consideration of ethical issues.
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