From early in development, the brain functions as an endocrine organ. Using mouse models, our lab is interested in understanding how the hypothalamus, with the contribution of accessory brain areas, such as the amygdala, determines the timing and pattern of hormonal release from the pituitary gland. This action triggers basic developmental processes, such as the sexual differentiation of the brain, growth, response to stress, or pubertal transition. During adulthood, the brain continues to be a hub where peripheral signals are integrated and specific responses are elicited to maintain homeostasis, including behavioral responses and physiological adaptations (e.g. changes in energy balance).

We have a strong focus on the reproductive axis because, due to its high energetic cost for the organism (mostly for mammalian females), reproductive function is tightly regulated by metabolic and environmental factors (e.g. stressors). Alterations in any of these regulatory pathways are frequently associated with fertility disorders in humans, with high relevance for Women’s Health.

Our lab is also interested in how the neurons that control reproductive function can also regulate critical bodily functions beyond reproduction. We have identified novel pathways linking Kiss1 neurons of the arcuate nucleus with 1) the melanocortin pathway of energy expenditure, and 2) with neurons of the preoptic area that control vasomotor symptoms (hot flushes) after menopause.

To understand how the animal couples the neuroendocrine responses described above with social stimuli, environmental changes, or homeostatic requirements, we study socio-sexual behaviors. We have identified that extra-hypothalamic (limbic) areas, like the amygdala or the BnST, serve as nodal integrators of the hormonal milieu and sex specific behavioral responses