The 17th International NYRA Meeting took place on April 12–13, 2025, at De Ruwenberg in the Netherlands, just before the European Testis Workshop. 39 participants from 12 countries joined us for two days of science, connection, and future-shaping discussion on male fertility and contraception.
Here are the main take-home messages from the meeting:
Dr Geert Hamer opened with insights into DNA double-strand breaks during meiosis and the SMC6 complex’s role in spermatogonial differentiation, sharing fresh perspectives on in vitro spermatogenesis and fertility preservation.
Dr Judit Castillo discussed the intricate remodeling of sperm chromatin during spermiogenesis, highlighting the specific histone modifications that may carry epigenetic information into the next generation.
Dr Elizabeth Bromfield focused on the functional maturation of sperm, diving into the role of capacitation and oxidative stress in sperm quality, and the potential of molecular chaperones like HSPA2 as targets for treating male infertility.
Dr Anne Jørgensen shared her lab’s work on the sex-specific development of human fetal gonads, emphasizing the need to suppress ovarian-promoting pathways for normal testis development and the wider implications for disorders of sex development.
Dr Erika Matunis wrapped up the plenary sessions with an engaging talk on stem cells and their microenvironment, exploring how germline and somatic stem cells communicate within the niche and actively shape their surroundings.
A lively scientific debate on male contraception was a new addition this year, sparking critical and engaging discussions about the societal, ethical, and biological challenges of advancing male contraceptive options.
Beyond the talks, our “scientific speed dating,” trivia night, and networking dinners created space for young researchers to connect, exchange ideas, and build collaborations that will shape the future of andrology.
The NYRA Board would like to thank our speakers, attendees, and sponsors, including the European Academy of Andrology, International Society of Andrology, Company of Biologists, and Male Contraceptive Initiative, for making this meeting possible.
We look forward to seeing you at the 18th NYRA Meeting!