9309555 Grober Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is a decapeptide that was isolated from brain in 1971 and has now been shown to exist in at least five different multiple forms. Further, with the development of sophisticated antibody technology, the GnRH neuronal network was demonstrated to be a complex, heterogenous system, comprising three or more distinct neuronal groups and spanning vastly different regions of the brain. While it is known that GnRH is involved in the control of reproductive behavior and physiology in all vertebrates, specific functions for the different GnRH peptides within the different brain regions have yet to be identified. Dr. Grober will examine a vertebrate that exhibits exceptional levels of sexual plasticity as his model system, thus providing an excellent opportunity to investigate how social interactions can trigger profound behavioral and physiological changes via the endocrine system. He will combine molecular, cellular and field endocrinological techniques to determine the role of GnRH in sexual plasticity. Dr. Grober will examine the relationship between GnRH gene expression and changes in physiology and behavior. He will show where and how much GnRH is formed and under what conditions. This integrative approach coupled with an unique model system will provide important insights into the role that GnRH plays in basic mechanisms underlying reproductive maturation, physiology and behavior. ***
