The Sertoli Cell: Master Regulator Of Hormone-induced Spermatogenic Development
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$563,536.00
Summary
This project will determine the key roles of major hormones (testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, Vitamin A) in Sertoli cells, unique highly specialised cells found in the testis that provide essential nutritional and structural support for sperm production. This research will provide new understanding of the biological pathways controlling sperm development, leading to new molecular targets for infertility or cancer treatment or diagnosis, or new contraceptive strategies for men.
Regulation Of Growth Hormone Profile By Metabolic Balance: Neuronal, Neuroendocrinal And Molecular Mechanism
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$413,257.00
Summary
Obesity is associated with a reduction in growth hormone secretion. As growth hormone maintains muscle mass at the expense of fat this may further promote the obese condition. This project will determine the physiological role of ghrelin, a hormone that signals hunger, in maintaining growth hormone secretion under normal, fasting and obese conditions. Clarification of the role of ghrelin in regulating growth hormone secretion may aid in the development of pharmacological agents to assist and mai ....Obesity is associated with a reduction in growth hormone secretion. As growth hormone maintains muscle mass at the expense of fat this may further promote the obese condition. This project will determine the physiological role of ghrelin, a hormone that signals hunger, in maintaining growth hormone secretion under normal, fasting and obese conditions. Clarification of the role of ghrelin in regulating growth hormone secretion may aid in the development of pharmacological agents to assist and maintain weight loss.Read moreRead less
This project will test the proposal that rising follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels in ageing females directly accelerate reproductive failure and bone loss , major public health issues due to delayed childbearing and our rising ageing population. We have developed a unique mouse model with elevated FSH levels that cause premature female infertility. We will now use this model to determine the direct effects of high FSH upon ovarian and uterine function, as well as bone loss with age.