Research Interests

Hormonal control of sexual development and metamorphosis, and endocrine disruption of these processe

Research Area

We are interested in how the brain regulates reproduction and growth in fish and metamorphosis in frogs. Sex hormones and thyroid hormones are both key regulators of brain function and development. Several research projects examine their action both as endogenous regulators of gene transcription and ultimately production of hormones and neurotransmitters in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. Recently, we have started to investigate a third family of liganded transcription factors, the peroxisome proliferators activated receptors. As well, chemicals and environmental pollutants can upset these hormonal systems by interacting with the specific nuclear receptors. This process is referred to as endocrine disruption, which is an important area of investigation. The principal animal models used are the goldfish (Carassius auratus), the leopard frog (Rana pipiens), and the tropical frog (Xenopus tropicalis). Most recently we have embarked on a major effort to develop a goldfish brain cDNA microarray to study gene expression regulated by sex hormones, neurotransmitters and endocrine disrupting chemicals. The frogs are mainly used to determine the effects of pollutants and toxic metals on the process of metamorphosis. The experimental techniques range from classical physiological approaches to molecular biology and cell transfection assays

Current Members

Trudeau, Vance L (Principal Investigator/Director)

Contact

Institution: University of Ottawa

Web Page: http://www.compphys.uottawa.ca/index.php?/Trudeau/Research/