Reproductive and Tumour Immunology Research Group

The objective of our research group is to gain insight into the intricate interactions between the developing embryo or fetus and the maternal immune system. Paternal antigens expressed by the fetus are typically recognized as foreign and should be rejected by maternal immune cells. However, during normal gestation, the conceptus is not attacked because the maternal immune system undergoes a reprogramming event that enables it to tolerate these antigens, thereby creating a favorable environment supportive of the developing fetus.

The development of immune tolerance is dependent on the presence of progesterone and its downstream mediator, the progesterone-induced blocking factor (PIBF). The role of PIBF in decidualization, implantation, and ongoing pregnancy has been investigated using PIBF-deficient mice. Our research has demonstrated that embryo-derived extracellular vesicles facilitate feto-maternal communication.

Another pivotal objective of our research is to identify the competent embryo, which is crucial for successful implantation. In the context of assisted reproduction, the objective is to achieve a single pregnancy through the effective transfer of a single embryo. To this end, we have developed a non-invasive test for identifying the competent embryo using flow cytometric determination of DNA-containing extracellular vesicles in embryo culture media.

Furthermore, our research encompasses the development of novel bioinformatics algorithms and data analysis processes, in collaboration with industrial partners, to address challenges in medical biology. We offer professional biostatistical and bioinformatical data analysis services to research groups in Hungary and abroad.

The impact of vitamin D on oocyte and embryo development, as well as its role in maintaining the immunological balance during pregnancy, is currently under investigation. Furthermore, we are developing a mouse model of preeclampsia to enhance our comprehension of this condition and facilitate more effective management strategies.

Furthermore, we are examining uterine progesterone levels in a mouse model after progesterone administration, aiming to determine the concentration of progesterone in the endometrium post-administration.