Media Release
Udupi. Feb 28: The centre of excellence in clinical embryology at Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal, in collaboration with the Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology at the University of Münster, Germany, organised the Indo-German workshop on translational andrology on February 28 and also on March 1, in Manipal, India.
The workshop aimed to focus on integrating cutting-edge male reproductive research into clinical practice, in aspects of non-invasive sperm selection for embryo development and fertility preservation for children with cancer.
The event was auspiciously graced by Prof Dr Sharath Rao, pro vice chancellor, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Prof Dr Satish Adiga, head, centre of excellence in clinical embryology, KMC, Manipal, Prof Dr Stefan Schlatt, director, Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Muenster, Germany, Prof Dr Andreas Meinhardt, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany, and Dr Claudia Krallmann, expert in andrology and sexual medicine, Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Germany.
Speaking at the conference, Prof Dr Sharath Rao, pro vice-chancellor, Health Sciences, MAHE, Manipal, said, "The Indo-German meeting on translational andrology represents a significant step toward bridging the gap between experimental research and clinical practice in male fertility. By fostering international collaboration, and industry partnership, our University aims to advance innovative, patient-centric solutions that will improve reproductive healthcare outcomes. We are proud to host this exchange of knowledge and expertise, strengthening our commitment to scientific excellence and global partnerships."
Prof Dr Satish Adiga, head, centre of excellence in clinical embryology, KMC, Manipal said, "India has close to 20 million couples in need of assisted procreation, yet research in male fertility remains limited. This workshop aims to bridge that gap by fostering Indo-German collaboration in translational andrology (men's reproductive health). A growing concern globally is the declining trend in sperm quality. This workshop will also explore whether Indian men are experiencing similar temporal changes and how these trends compare with Germany. Understanding these patterns is crucial for shaping future reproductive health strategies."
Prof Dr Stefan Schlatt, director, Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Muenster, Germany said, "Poor sperm quality is a major challenge in fertility treatments, directly impacting the success of IVF. There is an urgent need to develop advanced methods to select genetically healthy sperm, ensuring better outcomes for couples undergoing assisted reproduction."
The Indo-German translational andrology workshop gathered the top researchers from India and Germany and showcased the increasing global collaborations in developing reproductive medicine and fertility care approaches to bridge the gap between laboratory research and practical clinical practice