2023 ISIR Meeting as the Impetus for Centers for Reproductive Sciences (CERES): Driving reproductive health research forward in Germany

Reproductive health is crucial for individual well-being, societal advancement, and the health of future generations, encompassing biological, medical, and psychosocial dimensions. However, research in reproductive health in Germany has remained limited, with significant gaps that demand attention. To address these gaps, there is an urgent need for focused research, particularly among emerging scientists in academic medical institutions. In response to this need, the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) established five interdisciplinary centers dedicated to reproductive health in late 2023, following the ISIR 2023 conference. These centers include SRHOO at UKE, which explores the intersection of obesity and reproductive health; LE-REP, studying the long-term effects of fertility treatments; CEPRE, supporting healthy pregnancies through clinical and research collaboration; ReproTrack.MS, investigating male infertility at the molecular level; and FePro-Ulm, advancing fertility preservation techniques. This special issue showcases research from these centers, providing valuable insights into innovative treatments and the influence of lifestyle on reproductive health. The initiative also seeks to inspire young scientists to pursue careers in reproductive medicine and promote international collaboration aimed at improving maternal and child health worldwide.