Faculty

Research Description

Molecular Endocrinology: My research program has several different projects related to ovarian function.  The first project investigates the molecular mechanisms by which tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibits follicle-stimulating induction of aromatase using human and mouse granulosa cells as models. Our approaches to studying these problems are multifold. We are using in vitro approaches to determine the signal transduction mechanisms used by TNF in altering aromatase expression. For example, TNF inhibits multiple steps in the cAMP signaling cascade including protein kinase A and transcription factors.  The second project investigates the role of Src tyrosine kinase in ovarian follicular development and steroidogenesis.  Src regulates the activity of phosphodiesterase, a major regulator of ovarian cAMP, which is the second messenger of most of the gonadotropins.

Toxicology/Pharmacology: The third project assesses the mechanisms by which dioxin and related compounds block ovulation.  Dioxin's action in disrupting ovulation appears to be related to its anti-estrogenic actions by blocking the gonadotropin surges and follicular rupture.  This action of dioxin has led us to discover several novel compounds with a dioxin like action.  Thus, part of the research is related to new contraceptive development

Ovarian Cancer: The last project uses a mouse model of ovarian cancer to determine factors related to early onset and progression of this cancer as well as determine biomarkers for early detection.