Objectives

The main objective of GEMINI was to establish a network of European researchers investigating different aspects of maternal interactions with gametes and embryos.

GEMINI sought to investige these interactions across different species with the aim of creating an “Interactome” map of cell-to-cell interactions.

The study also looked at endo- and paracrine interactions between gametes, embryos and the female reproductive tract during different stages of the reproductive cycle and pregnancy.

This was evaluated in good health and under disturbed maternal nutrition and metabolism.

We hoped to achieve our objectives by realising the following specific goals:

  1. To establish the optimum in vivo model(s) for creation of an interactome map or database of maternal interaction and communication with gametes and embryos.

  2. To establish the optimum currently available in vitro model(s) for creation of an interactome map or database of maternal interaction and communication with gametes and embryos and to establish strategies for progress from in vivo towards in vitro models for creation of the interactome map.

  3. To establish guidelines and standards for the use of in vivo and in vitro models in investigation of the effect of maternal interaction and communication with gametes and embryos. Thus allowing investigators in different European labs to share data and information.

  4. To further knowledge of tools and technologies used for characterisation of maternal interaction and communication with gametes and embryos.

  5. To increase our knowledge base regarding application of “Systems Biology” approaches in the understanding of maternal interactions and communications with gametes and embryos.

  6. To develop methods and tools to allow knowledge gained from the interactome map to lead to improved protocols for the European animal breeding and biotechnology industry.

  7. To establish guidelines and standards for investigating the effect of disturbed maternal nutrition on maternal interaction and communication with gametes and embryos. Therefore allowing investigators in different European laboratories to share data and information.