Student Information Training Programs Research Centers

Pharmacology & Toxicology

Research and Graduate Training Faculty
alt text here

Gore, Andrea C., Ph.D.
Gustavus and Louise Pfeiffer Professor
PHR 5.218D
512-471-3669
andrea.gore@mail.utexas.edu

Research Interests

Lab Photo My laboratory is interested in the mechanisms by which the brain controls reproductive development and aging. We are focusing on a group of neurons in the hypothalamus that synthesize and release a peptide, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), that is the primary molecule controlling reproductive function.



  1. Neural mechanisms of reproductive development and puberty: During normal maturation, changes in hypothalamic GnRH release and biosynthesis are responsible for the reproductive process. In order to better understand the mechanisms by which GnRH neurons change, and the factors that regulate GnRH neurons, we study GnRH release, gene expression, neuroanatomy and physiology in normally developing male and female rats. Current research is focused on the roles of the NMDA receptor, and a neurotrophic factor, IGF-I, in their regulation of GnRH cells.

  2. Effects of environmental and hormonal factors that perturb reproductive function: We are also studying how perturbations of the neuroendocrine system (e.g. by environmental factors that may mimic steroid hormones, or pharmacological agents acting on receptors on GnRH neurons) result in aberrant reproductive functions. In particular, we are trying to understand whether the brain may be a primary target of endocrine disrupting chemicals, and the mechanisms thereof. These studies may help us to develop interventions to protect against environmental factors that may perturb normal reproductive development.

  3. Neural mechanisms for reproductive senescence: The mechanisms for reproductive senescence are poorly understood, particularly whether the brain (as opposed to the gonad) plays a role in this process. Experiments in our laboratory are ongoing to provide basic information as to the role of the hypothalamus, including the GnRH neurosecretory system, sex steroid hormone receptors (e.g., the estrogen receptor), and NMDA receptors that regulate GnRH cells, and how they change during reproductive aging.
More information about Dr. Gore
> Gore CV (PDF File)
> Books
> Publications & PDFs
> Gore Lab Members
> Gore Lab Alumni
> In the News
> Current Teaching
> Grants
> Links to Journals & Scientific Societies
> Links to UT Departments & Programs


(Download PDF Reader.)

Last Reviewed: January 14, 2009

Division Information

Mailing Address:
Pharmacology & Toxicology
College of Pharmacy
The University of Texas
at Austin
1 University Station,
A1915
Austin, TX
78712-0125
USA

Email Address: pharmacy
@www.utexas.edu

Phone: 512-471-5158


Gore Named AAAS Fellow

Dr. Gore

Dr. Andrea Gore, professor of pharmacology/toxicology, is one of 486 scholars to be named a Fellow by the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

> Read more about this honor.