The Center for Research in Reproduction at UVA has as a primary research focus on the understanding and treatment of disorders of reproduction with emphasis on the underlying mechanisms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Currently studies are investigating the role of androgens in the neuroendocrine dysfunction of adolescent PCOS (NICHD HD102060).  Recruitment for research subjects is ongoing in multiple age categories of women with and without PCOS.  However, the primary focus is the adolescent age group  (ages 7 – 19 years old).

The Center has also received funding from The Waterloo Foundation (UK) to study androgen excess – a typical symptom of PCOS sufferers – in adolescent girls to see if earlier instigation of treatment can be developed to improve regular ovulatory cycles later in adolescence and adulthood.

The Ligand Assay and Analysis Core continues as a nationally-known laboratory for testing of hormones and analytes.  The Core is a subsidized resource through NICHD (HD102061) and offers special rates to its approved users (see the Ligand web pages), and also offers services to other investigators.