The Salih Laboratory
Faculty > Sana M. Salih
Sana M. Salih
Assistant Professor, Obstetrics and Gynecology - Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility
Organ System/Disease Focus
Ovarian folliculogenesis, oocyte and early embryonic development.
Aligned Research Focus
Study differentiation of stem cell to germ cell and gametes as a model system to study the biology of germ cell development.
Research Description
Embryonic stem cell lines (ESc) have been shown to differentiate into various tissues types including germ cells and gametes. ESc are derived from the inner cell mass of the blastocyst and they raise some concerns. Recently, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSc) were produced by molecular reprogramming of mouse and human fibroblasts using defined factors; iPSc are indistinguishable from embryonic cells (ES) in morphology, pleuripotency, teratoma formation and germline and adult chimera competency. Since iPSc are indistinguishable from ESc and are patient-specific, genetically identical, immune-matched, and ethically-derived, it is potentially conceivable that they may provide patient-specific cell therapy in the future.
Research in my laboratory seeks to identify novel mechanisms that improve fertility and reproductive health outcomes in female patients. We are working on identifying factors that are essential for germ cell, gametes, and early embryonic development as well ways to protect the ovary against exposure to chemotherapy and other environmental toxins. I am currently studying the feasibility of utilizing iPSc -derived germ cell and gametes as a model system to elucidate key factors that are essential for folliculogenesis, gametogenesis, and early embryogenesis. Future goals in my lab are to explore the feasibility of patient-specific cell therapy using iPSc to treat gonadal failure.
Selected References
Klien Klein RD, Salih S, Bessoni J, Bale AE. Clinical testing for multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 in a DNA diagnostic laboratory. Genetics in Medicine. 2005;7(2):131-8.
Salih SM, Jamaluddin M, Salama SA, Fadl AA, Nagamani M, Al-Hendy A. Regulation of catechol-O-methyltransferase expression in granulosa cells: a potential role for follicular arrest in polycystic ovary syndrome. Fertil Steril. 2007;3.
Salih S, Xu X, Veenstra TD, Duleba AJ, Fouad H, Nagamani M, Al-Hendy A. Lower levels of urinary 2-hydroxyestrogens in polycystic ovary syndrome. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2007 Aug; 92(8):3285-91.
Salih S, Salama S, Jamaluddin M, Fadl A, Blok L, Burger C, Nagamani M, Al-Hendy.Progesterone-Mediated Regulation of Catechol-O-Methyl Transferase Expression in Endometrial Cancer Cells. Reprod Sci. 2008 Feb; 15(2):210-20.
Salama A; Kamel M, Concepcion A, Xu X;Veenstra T; Salih S, Blotting S;Kumar R. Effect of TNF-α on estrogen metabolism and endometrial cells: potential physiological and pathological relevance. Accepted for publication in J Clin Endocrinol Metab (10/08).