Dr. Helen Mason

Dr. Mason’s research group investigates ovarian function and has a special interest in polycystic ovary syndrome. There are 2 major areas of interest

1. Which genes cause the initiation and continued growth of the ovarian reserve of follicles?

We are utilising microarray technology to investigate the changes in gene expression as follicles progress through the early stages.

2. What is responsible for the increase in follicle number in PCOS and what causes the follicles to arrest in their growth?

We have established a method of culturing pieces of ovarian cortex on the chorioallantoic membrane of fertilised chicken eggs where we can investigate the action of factors effecting follicle growth. We have recently discovered that anti-Mullerian hormone is raised in PCOS and that it is able to inhibit aromatase expression. We are extending these studies to more fully understand its potential action in PCOS.

Dr Mason is the scientific advisor to the PCOS patient self-help group and is a director of PCOS-uk, a group established to educate professionals working with women with PCOS. She is also a member of the International Endocrine Scholars Committee of the Endocrine Society and a member of the Editorial Board of The Journal Of Endocrinology.

Dr. Mason’s teaching roles include

Life Cycle Module Leader

Reproduction Module Leader

BSc Module Joint Leader: Science of Reproduction