Sex-Dependent Regulation of Female Metabolism and Physiology
We are broadly interested in the interface between hormone signaling and sex-differences in how the female brain and gut function. We use a wide-range of methods to probe the anatomy and molecular aspects contributing to sex-specific physiological responses. Currently, we focus on estrogen signaling in the medial basal hypothalamus (MBH) that includes the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) and the arcuate nucleus (ARC). Mouse models coupled with genomics and pharmacogenetics are leveraged to define the estrogen-sensitive neuronal modules important in physical activity behavior, and bone density. We are excited to extend these studies into other brain regions important for female behavior. Our research program is highly relevant to age-related diseases in hormone deficient stages and to women’s health.