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John J. Lepri, Associate Professor and Head of Biology, UNCG
Research in Rodent Reproduction: Behavior, Physiology, Chemical Senses and Environmental Estrogens
My students and I are working on the hypothesis that interference with the normal action of the hormone estrogen, especially during puberty, can impair reproduction. Our main experimental protocol is to inject natural (estradiol) and environmental (genistein, an abundant component of soybean foods, and bis-phenol-A, a food contaminant from polycarbonate packaging) estrogens into peripubertal male and female house mice and then assay them for organismal (behavioral), functional (sperm production and uterotropic responses), and molecular (expression of estrogen-regulated genes) changes in reproduction. Since humans and wildlife are increasingly exposed to estrogenic compounds, there is an urgent need for greater knowledge about their possible effects.
A second line of lab work explores how pheromones and other chemical signals are used in animal communication. Working in collaboration with Dr. Roger Cone of the Vollum Institute, we are exploring the role of melanocortin signaling in the excretion of preputial gland products of male mice. We are especially interested in estimating how much these excretions alter the probability of inter-male aggression. Knowledge of the endocrine modulation of individual odors could be useful in medical diagnostics.
GRADUATE STUDENTS WANTED: Good students interested in Graduate Work in Biology. UNCG offers a program of study leading to the Master of Science in Biology. You can request an application by visiting the UNCG Graduate School Home Page and completing an on-line form. Faculty in diverse areas of biology are ready, willing and able to assist you in maximizing the value of your educational investment. The Director of Biology Graduate Studies is Dr. Vincent Henrich.If you prefer to call or write: