How stress and undernutrition affect hormone secretion and ovarian function
Regulation of gonadotropin secretion during undernutrition by a brainstem-hypothalamic neural pathway
This study looks at how not getting enough nutrition over a long time can affect a woman's menstrual cycle and hormone levels, which are important for ovulation, and it aims to help us understand and improve treatments for reproductive issues related to energy balance.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10900819 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of chronic undernutrition on the ovarian cycle, particularly how it disrupts hormone secretion necessary for ovulation. By studying specific neurons in the brain that regulate gonadotropin-releasing hormone and luteinizing hormone, the research aims to uncover the neuroendocrine mechanisms behind reproductive dysfunction in women. The study utilizes animal models to observe changes in hormone levels and ovarian activity in response to metabolic stress. Insights gained could lead to better understanding and treatment of reproductive disorders linked to energy balance.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women experiencing functional hypothalamic amenorrhea or other reproductive issues related to stress and energy balance.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing reproductive dysfunction or those with other underlying causes of amenorrhea may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new insights into treating reproductive disorders caused by stress and undernutrition.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding neuroendocrine pathways can lead to significant advancements in treating reproductive disorders, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Church, Kellie Breen — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Church, Kellie Breen
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.