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Animal Reproductive Biology Group

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Animal Reproductive Biology Group
158 Animal Sciences Research Ctr.
University of Missouri
Columbia, MO 65211
Phone: (573) 882-9897
Fax: (573) 882-6827
 
ARBG Related Information

Eric Walters

Research Assistant Professor

Education

  • B.S., Western Illinois University
  • M.S., University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
  • Ph.D., University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
  • Postdoc, training at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and University of Missouri-Columbia

Research Focus

  • Molecular embryology
  • Embryonic stem cells
  • Cryobiology

Research Description

In my laboratory there are three main research focuses:

  • Molecular embryology: Our goal is to advance the understanding of basic embryo physiology during early mammalian embryogenesis, particularly in the mouse and porcine models. The efficiency of many assisted reproductive technologies are extremely low, especially those of the porcine model. Currently, the production efficiency of transgenic pigs by nuclear transfer is approximately 1%. By understanding the genetic basis of mammalian embryonic developmental competence and how epigenetic factors influence embryonic development, we can improve the efficiency of assisted reproductive technologies. Understanding the factors that influence developmental competence will facilitate improvements in assisted reproductive technologies, making them more similar to the in vivo system.
  • Embryonic Stem Cells: Our goal is to establish germ-line competent swine embryonic stem cells (ESC) from various genetic backgrounds and enhance the efficiency of genetically modified pigs produced by nuclear transfer. To make more efficient use of swine models, there is a critical need to increase the efficiency of producing genetically modified pigs to fully realize this species' contribution to biomedical research. Advantages of ES cells are the potential for enhanced ability to undergo proper nuclear programming and their ability to grow in vitro for several generations. In addition, the establishment of porcine ES cells could be developed for tools for many areas of research, for example development of in vitro models by cell lineage specific differentiation for stem cell therapy for xenotransplantation, eye disorders and diabetes.
  • Cryobiology: Our goal is to develop of a producer-friendly method for boar spermatozoa cryopreservation that will result in post-thaw motility, conception rates, litter sizes, and live born that are comparable to fresh semen. Combining basic science with applied science, we can develop fundamentally sound cryopreservation protocols for both commercial studs as well as genetically modified pigs used for biomedical research.

Recent Publications

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