Membrane Excitability and Reproductive Biology

PROJECT SUMMARY The US and world populations face numerous reproductive challenges. For example, an estimated 13% of women in their reproductive years have impaired fecundity. Furthermore, the World Health Organization estimates that 15% of all pregnant women — 14 million per year — will experience an obstetric complication such as preterm birth, preeclampsia, or postpartum hemorrhage. Between 10% and 20% of reproductive-age women have endometriosis, which impairs fertility. Additionally, 7% of men globally are affected by infertility. Finally, infertility is a potential biomarker of both present and future health. To solve these and other reproductive challenges, we must rigorously define the etiologies and develop new therapies and technologies to prevent or treat them. To advance science in this area, this R13 proposal requests funds to support an international symposium entitled “Membrane Excitability and Reproductive Biology.” This will be the 79th Annual Symposium of the Society of General Physiologists (SGP) and will be held September 2 through 6, 2026, at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, MA. The SGP symposia have a reputation as leading meetings for physiologists and biophysicists spanning all career stages and professional levels, across several disciplines. Each year the meeting topic is unique, designed to highlight emerging and important research areas within the field of physiology. The 2026 meeting will bring together ~150 scientists and trainees to discuss cutting-edge fundamental and applied research relating to the role of membrane excitability in reproduction and novel technologies for studying these problems. The overarching goals of the meeting are to inspire and recognize young investigators, create a place for scientific exchange, and disseminate new and significant discoveries that push forward our fundamental understanding of reproduction. We will achieve these goals by pursuing the following three Specific Aims: 1) Provide an opportunity for experts in the field to present cutting-edge science on the role of membrane proteins in reproduction. 2) Promote early-career investigators within the field of reproduction, and 3) Foster new, interdisciplinary collaborations. By providing an interactive forum to discuss interdisciplinary and cutting-edge reproductive research, the 79th SGP meeting will stimulate new ideas and technologies to advance the field of reproduction.