Prof. Darren Griffin

Professor of Genetics

Chromosome Segregation in Human Sperm and Preimplantation Embryos

It is now well established that men with severely compromised semen parameters can have increased levels of aneuploidy in their sperm. We are interested in fundamental investigations into this phenomenon, in particular, the role of genetic recombination and changes in genome organisation.

Three colour FISH on human sperm
Figure: Three colour FISH on human sperm. X chromosome (yellow), Y chromosome (green), chromosome 21 (red). Three sperm in this field of view are XY disomic.

Through deeper understanding this we aim to better comprehend the causes of male fertility and the mechanisms of chromosome non-disjunction. We have evidence of the efficacy of Chinese Herbal Medicine in decreasing high aneuploidy rates in infertile men and for anti-oestrogenic properties in the medicinal herbs. Work has recently re-visited examination of the human preimplanatation embryo with research into the degree to which aneuploidy is transmitted from sperm to embryo and the role of genome organization in preimplantation development. We have close links with the London Bridge Fertility Clinic and Bridge Genoma.

Current Projects:

Comparative Genomics of Avian Species

The ability to distinguish each chicken chromosome has a number of applications in comparative genomics, developmental biology, molecular ecology, genome organization, and agriculture. We have developed resources that enable us to identify all chicken chromosomes individually. Work has now progressed to generating cytogenetic maps in a range of avian species and studying the role of chromosome evolution in birds.


Figure A: colour painting of chicken macrochromosomomes. Figure B: Dual colour chromosome painting of 2 smallest chicken chromosomes (chromosomes 37 and 38)

The spin off activity FARMACHROM has arisen from this work, which provides resources to a range of international collaborators.

In both the above we are now investigating the role of microarray technology for the determination of copy number variation thanks to a recently awarded Career Development Fellowship

Computer-Based Learning

Our newest research interest is in the generation, evaluation and dissemination of computer-based learning tools in genetics, cytogenetics and human reproduction. In 2002 we launched “Learning Interactive” a University spin off activity specializing in production, dissemination and sale of these computer-based learning materials.