"Successful basic research and the application of new observations to clinical practice results from the marriage of new and creative ideas, hard work, synergistic teams of investigators, and minds that are dedicated to rigorous precision in the application of investigative tools, yet open to the incorporation of new ideas and the modification of preexisting theories."
Neal S. Rote, Ph.D.
William H. Weir, M.D.
Professor of Reproductive Biology
Vice Chair for Academic Affairs
Division Director


Physiology and Pathobiology of Female Lower Reproductive Tract Epithelia
One major thrust of the research is epithelial transport using state-of-the-art methods to culture human normal and neoplastic vaginal, ectocervical, and endocervical cells on filters. Experiments revealed novel mechanisms and modes of transepithelial transport regulation that are unique to those epithelia.
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Physiology of Human Parturition
Dr. Mesiano's group investigates the long-term goal of developing treatment strategies to prevent preterm birth (i.e., prior to the 37th week of gestation).

In the U.S. preterm birth occurs in 10-12% of all pregnancies: around 400,000 births per year. Many of these preterm babies have difficulties coping with life outside the uterus because they are born before critical organ systems have sufficiently developed.
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Antiphospholipid Syndrome
Dr Rotes group investigates the above mentioned Syndrome, in which women with circulating autoantibodies against phospholipids are at risk for recurrent pregnancy loss, severe and early preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, prematurity, and blood clots.
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