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L90 Bellofiore Thesis_FINAL_Nov2018_Redacted.pdf (20.79 MB)

Discovery and characterisation of the first menstruating rodent: The spiny mouse for use as an in vivo model of reproductive biology

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thesis
posted on 2019-03-13, 04:36 authored by NADIA BELLOFIORE
This thesis details the discovery of the only naturally menstruating rodent, the spiny mouse. While reproduction in every other rodent is dictated by the environment and, importantly, the lining of the womb is not shed, the spiny mouse behaves like humans, and cyclically menstruates. The menstrual cycle lasts only 9 days, although shares many aspects with the 28-day human cycle. Each animal is unique in the length and heaviness of their menstrual period, the degree of inflammation and fluctuation of physical parameters (i.e. food consumption and body weight). This world first discovery advocates for the spiny mouse to be recognized for its extraordinary potential in studying women’s reproductive health and menstrual associated conditions.

History

Principal supervisor

Jemma Evans

Additional supervisor 1

Peter Temple-Smith

Additional supervisor 2

Fiona Cousins

Year of Award

2018

Department, School or Centre

Clinical Sciences at Monash Health

Additional Institution or Organisation

Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Campus location

Australia

Course

Doctor of Philosophy

Degree Type

DOCTORATE

Faculty

Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences

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    Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences Theses

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