Faculty

Research Description

Our laboratory is interested in the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in control of ovarian function. Research interests include the selection, development, growth and ovulation of follicles; the cellular and molecular events surrounding the rupture of the ovary during ovulation and the subsequent tissue repair at the rupture site; and mechanisms whereby ovarian surface epithelium undergoes tumorigenic transformation.

Ongoing studies address the role of tumor necrosis factor in these processes. Studies recently initiated focus on the effects of the environmental contaminant 2,3,7,8 tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) on female fertility. Experiments in female rats indicate that TCDD has both direct and indirect effects upon ovarian function. One direct effect of TCDD exposure is the cessation of ovulation. Immature hypophysectomized rats were treated with a single dose of TCDD followed by PMSG to induce follicular development and then hCG to induce ovulation. Ovaries examined from these rats the day after expected ovulation exhibit multiple large unruptured follicles containing ova, similar to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women. The hypothesis under investigation is that TCDD blocks ovulation by inhibiting the action of the plasminogen activator system in the ovary either directly at the level of the gene, and/or indirectly by altering the action of LH (hCG).