About
Dr David Mottershead serves as a Lecturer in Biochemistry & Cell Biology at Keele University's School of Allied Health Professions and Pharmacy since 2016, focusing on growth factors critical for mammalian fertility and their therapeutic applications in infertility treatment.
His academic foundation includes a PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Adelaide (1990) followed by international postdoctoral training.
- PhD, Biochemistry, University of Adelaide (1990)
- Postdoctoral Research, Boston, USA
- Postdoctoral Research, Sydney, Australia
- Postdoctoral Research, Helsinki, Finland
Research Interests:
Dr Mottershead investigates the molecular mechanisms of oocyte-secreted growth factors GDF9 and BMP15, with particular emphasis on Cumulin (a heterodimer of GDF9/BMP15). His work explores structure-function relationships, signal transduction pathways, and therapeutic development for infertility treatments that offer less invasive, cost-effective alternatives to traditional IVF by eliminating hormone injections. This research bridges fundamental biochemistry with clinical reproductive medicine.
Publication Trends:
Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2014-2022) reveals consistent investigation into oocyte-secreted factors and fertility mechanisms. Key themes include Cumulin's role in enhancing in vitro maturation (IVM), synergistic interactions between growth factors and FSH, and molecular pathways affecting oocyte competence across species (mouse, bovine, human). His work demonstrates translational potential, with media highlighting Cumulin-based IVM as a cheaper, faster alternative to conventional IVF.
Scientific Awards:
No scientific awards, fellowships, or major prizes were documented in the source material.
Advising and Grants:
The available information does not specify any current PhD students or formal advisees. Details regarding specific research grants are not provided, though his active publication record implies ongoing research funding in reproductive biology.
Labs and Teams:
Dr Mottershead previously led an independent research group at the University of Adelaide (2009-2014) focused on GDF9/BMP15. At Keele, he contributes to the Therapeutics research theme within the School of Pharmacy. He also founded Mottasis Oy Ltd, a Helsinki-based biotech consulting company specializing in mammalian cell expression systems for recombinant proteins, demonstrating his industry engagement alongside academic work.
