Welcome to FPELS
FPELS
Fertility Preservation and Enhancement Research Laboratory at Seoul National University College of Medicine
Introduction to Our Laboratory
In modern society, the prevalence of cancer continues to rise. However, advancements in early cancer diagnosis and treatment technologies have significantly increased the number of cancer survivors. Concurrently, societal shifts, such as greater participation of women in the workforce and delayed age at first marriage, have contributed to later timelines for pregnancy and childbirth. As a result, research on fertility preservation, reproductive health, and strategies to support women planning to have children has become an indispensable and globally recognized field of study.
Female reproductive aging accelerates rapidly after the mid-30s, and physical aging progresses markedly post-menopause. Despite these challenges, effective medical solutions to mitigate or reverse these processes remain elusive.
Our laboratory is committed to exploring and understanding the mechanisms behind various causes of functional decline in the female reproductive system, including the impact of chemotherapy, surgical interventions, environmental and genetic factors, aging, and infections. Based on these findings, we aim to develop innovative and clinically applicable solutions to address these challenges.
Our Approach
Through interdisciplinary and systematic collaborative research that bridges the fields of basic science, clinical medicine, and engineering, we carry out in-depth studies in areas such as reproductive biology, regenerative medicine, and bioengineering. This integrative approach allows us to generate meaningful insights and practical advancements in the field of women’s health.
We firmly believe that scientific progress cannot be achieved through isolated efforts. With an open mind, we actively collaborate with researchers from around the world, fostering global partnerships to uncover solutions for the most pressing challenges in reproductive health and beyond.
Our Vision
Our vision is to advance the frontiers of reproductive health, fertility preservation, and women's health, including addressing the challenges of aging. We aim to contribute to a future where every individual has the opportunity to fulfill their family-building aspirations and maintain their well-being throughout life. Through relentless innovation and collaboration, we strive to make meaningful contributions that improve lives globally.
2007 Performed the first human ovarian tissue cryopreservation procedure.
2012 Officially established FPELS.
2013 Founded the Korean Society for Fertility Preservation (KSFP).
2014 Hosted the 1st Ovarian Cryopreservation Workshop.
2015 Conducted the 2nd and 3rd Ovarian Cryopreservation Workshops.
2016 Relocated the laboratory to the Healthcare Innovation Park (HIP) of Seoul National University Bundang Hospital.
2018 Reported Korea's first case of in vitro fertilization following transplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue.
Degree Conferrals
• 11 Master’s Degrees
• 8 Doctoral Degrees
FPELS ongoing research
1. Enhancing the efficiency of oocyte, embryo, and ovarian tissue cryopreservation and follicle in vitro culture techniques.
2. Developing techniques to prevent ischemic damage during ovarian tissue reimplantation.
3. Investigating mechanisms underlying functional decline in aged ovaries and the endometrium and developing therapeutic approaches.
4. Exploring pathophysiological mechanisms in endometrial and ovarian fibrotic disorders and creating anti-fibrosis treatment strategies.
5. Developing artificial ovaries using material science and tissue engineering methods.
6. Advancing convergent research through bioengineering and digital science approaches.
To learn more about us,
Please contact Professor Jung Ryeol Lee (Principal Investigator):
E-mail: leejrmd@snu.ac.kr / leejrmd@gmail.com
