The Centre for Neuroendocrinology at the University of Otago has received significant grant funding from the Royal Society Marsden Fund for three exciting research projects (~$941,000 each). These projects, led by top researchers, aim to uncover important insights into how hormones affect sensory processing, stress adaptation, and menopausal symptoms.
Nurturing Instincts: Uncovering the Hormonal Influences on Sensory Processing in Parents
Lead Researcher: Rosie Brown
Co-Researcher: Mike Garratt
This project will explore how the hormone prolactin affects sensory neurons in the nose to trigger care-giving behaviour in mothers. Using advanced techniques, the research will investigate how hormones change the way mothers process smells and determine the role of prolactin in maternal care. The findings could provide important insights into how hormonal changes influence maternal behaviour.
Stress Adaptation: Investigating the Brain Circuits
Lead Researcher: Joon Kim
Adapting to stress is crucial for resilience, helping individuals cope with stress effectively. This study will investigate a specific brain circuit that helps suppress stress. Using advanced optical techniques, the research will record and manipulate this brain circuit to understand its role in reducing stress during adaptation. The project aims to provide the first evidence of how the brain adapts to stress through experience.
A Neural Circuit Linking Menopausal Hot Flushes and Awakening
Lead Researcher: Jenny Clarkson
Co-Researcher: Rosie Brown
During menopause, many women experience hot flushes that disrupt sleep and reduce quality of life. This research will explore how serotonin, a molecule that promotes wakefulness, coordinates hot flushes with awakening. Using advanced methods, the study will monitor serotonin release, neuron activity, body temperature, and wakefulness in a mouse model of menopause. The goal is to understand serotonin’s role in coordinating hot flushes and awakening, potentially leading to new treatments for menopausal women.
L-R, Mike Garratt, Jenny Clarkson, Rosie Brown, Joon Kim.