Rafael A. Fissore

Rafael A. Fissore is a Professor in the Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he conducts research on the molecular mechanisms of fertilization and early embryonic development in mammals. He is based in the Integrated Sciences Building (ISB 427E) and is affiliated with the College of Natural Sciences.

Research Interests: Dr. Fissore's laboratory focuses on understanding how sperm triggers calcium (Ca²⁺) oscillations in mammalian eggs, which are essential for egg activation and embryonic development. His work investigates the pathways and molecules involved in initiating Ca²⁺ release, particularly through the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R). The lab also studies the regulation, conductivity, and degradation of IP3R during the cell cycle, including the effects of inhibitors like KN-93.

Techniques and Approaches: The research employs a range of experimental methods such as intracellular Ca²⁺ signaling measurements, in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), protein purification via column chromatography, kinase assays, Western blotting, microinjection, and the use of pharmacological agonists and antagonists.

Education:

• Ph.D., 1993, University of Massachusetts
• Postdoctoral Training, Harvard Medical School

Scientific Awards:

• No awards listed in the provided text.

Advising and Grants: While specific students or grant funding are not mentioned in the text, Dr. Fissore leads an active research laboratory focused on fundamental questions in reproductive biology. His work likely involves training graduate students and securing research support, though details are not provided.

Laboratory and Research Team: Dr. Fissore directs a research laboratory investigating Ca²⁺ release mechanisms in mammalian oocytes and embryos. The team uses molecular, cellular, and biochemical approaches to dissect signaling pathways critical to fertilization and early development.