CRS Scientist Spotlight on Caroline Kratka

Caroline Kratka is an MD/PhD candidate in the MSTP training program, pursuing her PhD in the Duncan Lab. Her research focuses on the cumulus-oocyte-complex, the structure which is released from the follicle at the time of ovulation. 

Thesis mentor: Francesca Duncan, PhD 

Thesis title: "Proprotein convertases regulate cumulus-oocyte-complex matrix integrity during ovulation" 

What brought you to join the CRS community and what is your current position? 

I was originally drawn to CRS because of its rich history as a powerhouse for reproductive science. Once I became a CRS member, I learned that not only is the CRS an exceptional place to do reproductive science, but it is also an exceptional place to grow as a scientist. The CRS highly values mentorship and peer support, and its highest priority is to cultivate a community where trainees learn and thrive.  I am a MD/PhD candidate in my sixth year of the program. Currently, I am working as a graduate student in Dr. Francesca Duncan’s lab.  

Could you describe your research? 

My research centers on the cumulus-oocyte-complex, the structure which is released from the follicle at the time of ovulation. I am currently studying the proprotein convertases (PCSKs), a family of proteins which cleave inactive proteins into their active forms. My work thus far has shown that the PCSKs play a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the COC, and I am currently searching for the mechanism by which this occurs.  

What aspect(s) of CRS do you find most valuable?  

CRS does a wonderful job of providing networking opportunities for trainees. CRS events and MSRSM courses bring in fantastic speakers both within and outside NU. In addition, the CRS offers a lot of leadership positions for trainees. These positions help us build communication and organization skills, and give trainees a voice to make positive impacts in the CRS community. The CRS is really great at guiding trainees in these leadership experiences so that we learn how to best utilize these skills in our future career. 

What has been the most valuable aspect to your training as a reproductive scientist? 

This past spring, I took a course called “Frontiers in Reproduction” (FIR) at the Marine Biological Laboratory. The course is 6 weeks long with lectures and labs run by experts in reproductive science. There are many CRS faculty and alumni who have taken this course, and I am thankful that applying to FIR was so encouraged by our community. My knowledge of reproductive science beyond my niche area of research expanded greatly during this course, and I picked up so many lab techniques and skills along the way. I highly recommend that all CRS members consider going to FIR! 

What is one piece of advice you would give to young scientists starting in their journey in science?  

My biggest piece of advice is to embrace failure as an opportunity to grow. This is something really challenging that I am still working on. In science, making a mistake almost always has an upside. Not only are you less likely to make that mistake again, but you learn how to recognize the potential causes of an experiment not working as expected. In science, “mistakes” can even reveal a better way to run an established protocol, or lead to a whole new field of study.  

What do you think will be the next big contribution in the reproductive biology field?  

Cumulus cells have historically been understudied, with most studies focusing only on how cumulus cells support the oocyte. However, recent work has begun to elucidate that cumulus cells have unique functions that may be important for events like follicle wall thinning and COC expulsion from the follicle. Therefore, I think the next big contribution in the reproductive biology field will involve a method for targeting cumulus cells to improve fertility or provide non-hormonal contraception. 

What hobbies do you have outside of the lab?   

Outside of the lab, I really enjoy being outdoors. My favorite activates are running on the lakefront and spending time at the beach. I also have two cats at home that I love dearly!