What is this collection about?

Fertility and reproduction depend on precisely coordinated molecular events that span gametogenesis, fertilization, embryonic development and cell signaling. This joint Collection between Nature Communications, Communications Biology and npj Structural Biology welcomes submissions that use or discuss structural, biochemical and biophysical approaches to uncover the molecular basis of fertility and reproduction. We particularly encourage studies that connect molecular structure, dynamics, forces, interaction landscapes and function in reproductive biology. Relevant methods include cryo-EM, cryo-ET, X-ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy, single-molecule biophysics, force spectroscopy, super-resolution imaging, molecular dynamics simulations, integrative structural biology and other quantitative biophysical approaches. Submissions are encouraged by 25 May 2027.

Why is this collection important?

Many of the most important questions in reproductive biology are rooted in molecular structure and mechanism. Understanding how biomolecular architecture, dynamics and physical forces influence reproductive processes can provide insights into fertility, fertilization, embryonic development and cellular communication. By bringing together advances in structural biology, biochemistry and biophysics, this Collection aims to highlight studies that reveal the mechanistic basis of reproduction and inspire future discoveries in the field.

Why submit to a collection?

Collections like this one help attract and promote high-quality science. They are led by internal In-House Editors and supported by a dedicated team of Commissioning Editors and Managing Editors at Springer Nature. Collection manuscripts typically see higher citations, downloads, and Altmetric scores, and provide a one-stop-shop on a cutting-edge topic of interest.

Who is involved?

Nature Communications is edited by in-house professional editors.

Communications Biology is edited by both in-house professional editors and Editorial Board Members.

npj Structural Biology is edited by a team of external academic editors.

Our editors work closely together to ensure the quality of our published papers and consistency in author experience.

How can I submit my paper?

Visit the Collection page to find out more about this collection and submit your article.