Uncovering the role of long non-coding RNAs in uterine function for food, fertility, and health

In all mammalian species studied the majority of pregnancy loss occurs prior to implantation of the embryo into the uterine endometrium. We know a lot about how the transcriptional profile of the endometrium is modified in response to key hormones or signaling molecules however, the function that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA)s play in facilitating these interactions has not been studied. This PhD project addresses how lncRNAs regulate the implantation process in a variety of species with different implantation strategies. To address this question available omics data sets will be assessed to determine if any novel peptides may have been translated from candidate lncRNAs regulated by early pregnancy cues. Cellular localization of lncRNAs from endometrial cells from different species will be assessed and pull down of protein partners those that are conserved to identify functional role of these in establishing uterine receptivity to implantation. Collective this project will enhance our understanding of the role lncRNAs play in the implantation process and how conserved this is in species with different early pregnancy morphologies.