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EDRI Federal Project Inventory:
Neurosteriod Effects on Behavior
- Sponsor Organization: NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
- Project Title: NEUROSTERIOD EFFECTS ON BEHAVIOR
- Project Focus: HUMAN HEALTH EFFECTS
- Description: The classical mechanism of action of steroid hormones is for the
hormone to diffusethrough the plasma membrane, bind to a cytosolic
receptor which is translocated to thenucleus of the cell, where the
receptor/ligand complex induces changes in genetranscription, and
subsequently protein production. However, it has been observed
thatsome behavioral effects of these hormones take place quite rapidly
when compared to thehours required to change protein synthesis in a
cell. As a result, the current theory ofsteroid action includes the
ability of these hormones to exert rapid, non-genomic effects,possibly
involving receptors imbedded in the plasma membrane. The
investigations of Dr.Frye focus on the non-genomic behavioral effects
of steroid hormones. A study of the ability of steroid hormones to
modulate classical gamma-aminobutyric acid receptors andreproductive
behavior is an integral part of this project. In addition, the
behavioral effects of steroid hormones produced by the brain, will be
undertaken. The notion thatnon-genomic effects of steroids complement
genomic effects of these hormones to initiateand terminate
reproductive behavior is unique and will provide essential new
informationin the study of the brain communication mechanisms.
Additionally, the evidencesupporting novel, non-classical effects of
steroid hormones will be important for biologistsinvestigating the
neurobiology and physiology of this essential class of molecules that
areused by organisms in many ways. In addition to the novel research
to be undertakenduring this research, Dr. Frye will also engage in
novel educational activities crucial to thedevelopment of new programs
at Connecticut College. The development of a new curriculum in
neuroscience and biopsychology incorporating novel research
experiencesfor undergraduate students is a centerpiece of Dr. Frye's
activities, as well as developingnew outreach activities. Support for
this research and education program will have greatimportance on the
development of future generations of neuroendocrinologists
andneuroscientists from both an educational and research perspective.
- References:
- Category: MODELS
- Subcategory: BASIC RESEARCH
- Keywords for Experimental System/Species: RODENT, MAMMAL, IN VIVO, LABORATORY STUDY
- Keywords for Experimental Endpoints: NEUROLOGICAL, REPRODUCTIVE, HORMONE MEASURES, SEX STEROIDS, PEPTIDE
HORMONES,PHYSIOLOGY, BREEDING BEHAVIOR,
- Chemical Agents: Sex Steroids
- Performing Institution: Connecticut College
- Contact: Cheryl A Frye, Route 32, North, New London, CT 06320 203 447-
1911 cafry@conncoll.edu
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