Description of Research Expertise

KEY WORDS:
mouse model, depression, stress, sex differences, obesity, CRF, neuroendocrinology, hypothalamus, feeding, anxiety

RESEARCH INTERESTS
Examine the effects of stress sensitivity on the development and treatment of depression. Determine the molecular mechanisms by which stress factors influence appetite and metabolism. Examine the effects of maternal stress-sensitivity on fetal development and long-term physiological and behavioral responses.

RESEARCH TECHNIQUES
Genetic mouse models for behavioral analyses including stress, anxiety, depression, feeding and reward models; gene expression studies using in situ hybridization; pharmacology and protein expression using receptor autoradiography; biochemistry using Western blot; molecular biology for gene detection; and plasma hormone detection using radioimmune assays.

RESEARCH SUMMARY
The main interest of this laboratory is deciphering the role stress plays in disrupting homeostasis. The specific areas we are interested in include the effect stress has on the development of depression, anxiety, and obesity and metabolic disorders. We are interested in how neuropeptides produced in the hypothalamus regulate stress responsivity. A key factor modulating stress responses is the neuropeptide corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF). CRF and its family of ligands and receptors (CRFR1 and CRFR2) regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal stress axis by coordinating functions such that homeostasis is maintained. Dysregulation of this axis can lead to the development of stress-related mood disorders including anxiety and depression. We are interested in understanding the genetics behind heightened stress sensitivity and in determining the effects this has on gestational development as well as on long-term physiological, behavioral, and emotional health. In these efforts, we utilize a genetically modified mouse model of elevated stress sensitivity and responsivity. From our studies, we hope to begin to decipher the genes and molecular mechanisms underlying risk factors and thereby direct our resources toward more identifiable prevention and treatment for stress-related disorders.