Research Team: Team of Molecular Biology of Reproduction

Place of Work: Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research Polish Academy of Sciences

Keywords: Metylacja DNA; Epigenetyka; Estradiol-17β; Świńskie endometrium; Wczesna ciąża; Komunikacja zarodek–matka; Regulacja ekspresji genów; Biologia rozrodu

Research Focus:

My research focuses on the role of embryonic signals, particularly estradiol-17β (E2), in modulating the DNA methylation landscape of the porcine endometrium during early pregnancy. Building on my Master’s thesis, which explored the impact of drought stress on phenolic compounds and antioxidant properties in Vitis vinifera roots, I became increasingly interested in how environmental and physiological factors influence gene regulation mechanisms.

Currently, I am investigating whether E2 and/or porcine embryos can induce changes in DNA methylation and whether these epigenetic modifications regulate the expression of genes critical for uterine receptivity and early pregnancy. I use a combination of in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo models to assess the activity of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), TET enzymes, and their downstream effects on cell function, gene expression, and secretory profiles. My goal is to better understand how epigenetic mechanisms contribute to maternal recognition of pregnancy and embryo implantation, which may offer insights applicable to both livestock fertility and human reproductive medicine.