Dr. Polan's research has centered around ovarian function during both the follicular and luteal phases. Studies of steroidogenesis, LH receptor synthesis, and the involvement of the plasminogen activator system in ovarian events have been performed. In addition, this laboratory has investigated the synthesis and secretion of interleukin-1 by human peripheral monocytes as well as by human granulosa-luteal cells isolated from IVF patients. More recently this laboratory has focused on the role of IL-1, IL-1ra, and IL-1 type 1 receptor, as well as collagenase and TIMPs, in the process of embryonic implantation. Studies with IL-1 receptor antagonist have documented its ability to prevent implantation in the mouse model.