University research attracts conference on reproduction

University research attracts conference on reproduction

The Grand Rapids-based MSU College of Human Medicine works to develop “exemplary physicians and scholars” and champions inclusive medicine. Photo via fb.com

Groundbreaking reproductive research being done at Michigan State University’s College of Human Medicine has helped draw the largest international conference on reproductive research to Grand Rapids.

The Society for the Study of Reproduction, or SSR, is bringing its annual conference, in its 47th year, to DeVos Place, from July 19-23.

More than 800 researchers from 36 countries are expected to attend the conference.

SSR is dedicated to advancing the knowledge of the reproductive process in humans and animals, while also studying the impact of reproduction on the environment, wildlife biology and conservation, food production, human fertility and population growth.

MSU reproductive research

Asgi Fazleabas, Ph.D., local arrangements committee chair for SSR, said the conference is being held in Grand Rapids because of “the pioneering research in women’s heath being done at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine.”

“I hope our fellow citizens will be proud that scientists are coming to Grand Rapids from around the globe,” Fazleabas said. “We are excited to welcome them to our city. Their research will lead to longer lives, improved health and better quality of life.

“Today, as a result of investments made, our city is playing a growing role in the scientific discoveries that will shape our future.”

The research has been made possible, in part, by nearly $8 million in national grants to Grand Rapids institutions last year.

Researchers at MSU have used the funding to study benign and malignant gynecological diseases, which will help discover new treatments and better understanding of proper ovarian function for reproduction.

The research has significant implications for the treatment of infertility in humans and farm animals, as well as developing better diagnoses and treatments for gynecological diseases.

Reproductive topics

This year’s SSR conference theme is “Fertility: A Global Challenge.”

Renowned international and national speakers will lecture on a range of topics: the latest research on human population growth and contraception; cloning; our genetic relationship to Neanderthals; animal agriculture and its importance in meeting the future needs of a growing human population; and how environmental and dietary exposures during pregnancy impact future health of children.