The Future Conceived

SSR Podcast

The Future Conceived podcast is the official podcast for the Society for the Study of Reproduction. In this podcast, you'll hear about emerging scientists, new techniques, investigators from around the world, untold stories about our annual conference, and so much more! For more information about the Society for the Study of Reproduction and all things reproductive biology related please visit: https://www.ssr.org. Enjoy!

  1. 9月15日

    EP43: Sperm Capacitation: Energy Metabolism with Dr. Melanie Balbach

    In this episode of The Future Conceived, host Cam Schmidt talks with Dr. Melanie Balbach, an assistant professor at Michigan State University, about the fascinating world of sperm metabolism. Dr. Balbach, an expert in biochemistry and molecular biology, sheds light on the process of sperm capacitation, the essential maturation step that gives sperm the power to fertilize an egg. From the moment of ejaculation, sperm undergo a dynamic transformation, shifting from a state of metabolic dormancy to an activated, energy-hungry powerhouse. Dr. Balbach explains how sperm, despite being transcriptionally and translationally silenced, dynamically adapt their energy metabolism to meet the demands of their journey. Listeners will learn about the interconnected dance between cell signaling and energy production, the "chicken and egg question" of which comes first, and how sperm-specific metabolic enzymes are regulated to fuel their journey. Dr. Balbach also shares insights from her groundbreaking research using stable isotope labeling, which reveals how sperm become more metabolically flexible to survive in the female reproductive tract. Finally, the conversation delves into the exciting application of this research: the development of novel, non-hormonal male contraceptives. Discover how targeting these unique metabolic and signaling pathways could lead to a new generation of on-demand male birth control. Join us to explore the intricate science that drives life's most fundamental journey and learn how a deeper understanding of sperm offers a glimpse into the future of reproductive science and medicine.

    1 小时 18 分钟
  2. 7月30日

    EP 41: 2025 Training Mentoring Award Interview with Marisa Bartolomei

    Welcome to The Future Conceived, the official podcast of the Society for the Study of Reproduction! In this episode, host Cam Schmidt has a fascinating conversation with Dr. Marisa Bartolomei, Perlman Professor of Cell and Developmental Biology at the University of Pennsylvania and the esteemed winner of SSR's 2025 Training Mentoring Award. Dr. Bartolomei shares insights into her unique journey, transitioning into reproductive biology as a faculty member after starting in other fields like genetics and epigenetics. She discusses the evolution of graduate and postdoctoral training, the challenges of navigating an ever-growing sea of scientific information, and the increasing length of PhD and postdoc programs. Listen in as she reflects on her diverse mentorship experiences, from her early days knocking on lab doors as an undergraduate to her current approach of fostering not only research skills but also crucial "soft skills" in her trainees. Discover what Dr. Bartolomei finds most rewarding about mentoring, her advice for early career scientists starting their own labs, and essential tips for trainees on how to navigate their scientific journeys. This episode offers a candid and insightful look into the past, present, and future of scientific training and mentorship within the reproductive sciences. Sponsored by SSR's Virtual Education Committee, dedicated to education, highlighting member careers, and sharing the latest scientific advancements in reproductive biology. Learn more at ssr.org.

    48 分钟

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The Future Conceived podcast is the official podcast for the Society for the Study of Reproduction. In this podcast, you'll hear about emerging scientists, new techniques, investigators from around the world, untold stories about our annual conference, and so much more! For more information about the Society for the Study of Reproduction and all things reproductive biology related please visit: https://www.ssr.org. Enjoy!

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