Research

In the Laboratory for Neuroendocrinology the focus of activity is on networks of neuroendocrine neurones.  Neuroendocrine systems control growth and metabolism, fluid and electrolyte balance, blood pressure, physiological responses to stress, and all aspects of reproduction - they are of key importance to health and welfare.  Most pituitary hormones are released in pulses during appropriate physiological states.  Interactive neuronal networks in the hypothalamus orchestrate this pulsatile release.  Research in the laboratory principally involves investigating the networks controlling secretion of growth hormone, ACTH, and the  neurohypophysial hormones, oxytocin and vasopressin.  Oxytocin, for instance, is essential for parturition and lactation, and oxytocin released into the brain is important in reproductive behaviours.  Oxytocin is also natriuretic and helps regulate salt intake.  Neuroendocrine neurones thus have a rich variety of inputs and different patterns of response, which are appropriate to different physiological states.