The critical role of kisspeptin/neurokinin/dynorphin (KNDy) neurons in gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) release. The brain controls fertility through the secretion of its primary stimulatory factor, gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). Brain cells producing three key peptide hormones, kisspeptin, neurokin B and dynorphin (termed KNDy cells) are vital for the control of GnRH. This project will detail the role of KNDy cells in puberty and reproduction.
Estrogen signalling in gonadotropes. Estrogen action is a normal prerequisite for cyclic function of reproduction in the female, but little is known about how this important hormone acts in the relevant cells of the pituitary gland (gonadotropes). In order to gain information on normal function, we will conduct studies on gonadotropes treated with estrogen in a range of paradigms. The information will be valuable in understanding normal reproduction, but will also form the basis of further studi ....Estrogen signalling in gonadotropes. Estrogen action is a normal prerequisite for cyclic function of reproduction in the female, but little is known about how this important hormone acts in the relevant cells of the pituitary gland (gonadotropes). In order to gain information on normal function, we will conduct studies on gonadotropes treated with estrogen in a range of paradigms. The information will be valuable in understanding normal reproduction, but will also form the basis of further studies to investigate the effects of drugs that affect estrogen action and environmental estrogens. Read moreRead less
Masterminding Reproduction: Kisspeptin and RFamide-Related Peptide. There are a number of concerning trends in reproductive health. Women are reporting difficulty conceiving and maintaining pregnancies; while sperm count and quality are declining in men. More concerning is the increase in reproductive cancers. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist and agonist have been used for decades to treat reproductive cancers (such as breast cancer and prostate cancer), infertility and precociou ....Masterminding Reproduction: Kisspeptin and RFamide-Related Peptide. There are a number of concerning trends in reproductive health. Women are reporting difficulty conceiving and maintaining pregnancies; while sperm count and quality are declining in men. More concerning is the increase in reproductive cancers. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist and agonist have been used for decades to treat reproductive cancers (such as breast cancer and prostate cancer), infertility and precocious puberty. Kisspeptin and RF-related peptide may offer more physiological alternatives to GnRH, without detrimental side effects. We will fully explore these two newly defined and major players in reproduction and provide a physiological framework for their progression to clinical use.Read moreRead less
Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE0883078
Funder
Australian Research Council
Funding Amount
$356,000.00
Summary
Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry Steroid Analysis Facility. This first of a new generation of ultra-sensitive analytical mass spectrometers for small molecules will be established as a national assay facility allowing all Australian researchers open access to a new dimension of highly accurate and simultaneous measurements of multiple bodily chemicals such as steroids, vitamins and hormones. It is crucial to developing new knowledge in basic, developmental and pathological cell bio ....Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry Steroid Analysis Facility. This first of a new generation of ultra-sensitive analytical mass spectrometers for small molecules will be established as a national assay facility allowing all Australian researchers open access to a new dimension of highly accurate and simultaneous measurements of multiple bodily chemicals such as steroids, vitamins and hormones. It is crucial to developing new knowledge in basic, developmental and pathological cell biology and for underpinning commercial developments of new molecular targets for therapeutic drugs for many diseases including cancer, cardiovascular disease and reproductive disorders. This facility is pivotal to maintaining international competitiveness in many areas of biological research in national priority areas.Read moreRead less
Targeting TGF-beta proteins to control animal reproduction. This project aims to develop a suite of novel biologics to control fertility in female mammals. This project expects to demonstrate that targeting a single class of ovarian proteins will enhance or inhibit egg production. The expected outcomes of this project are to (1) transform the breeding of livestock animals, which should provide significant benefits to the agricultural industry, through increased herd/flock sizes, and (2) provide ....Targeting TGF-beta proteins to control animal reproduction. This project aims to develop a suite of novel biologics to control fertility in female mammals. This project expects to demonstrate that targeting a single class of ovarian proteins will enhance or inhibit egg production. The expected outcomes of this project are to (1) transform the breeding of livestock animals, which should provide significant benefits to the agricultural industry, through increased herd/flock sizes, and (2) provide a non-surgical method of contraception in companion/feral species, which should address the large unmet need for fertility control in these animals.
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