Bittman 9615725 The pineal gland has long been known to be integral to the regulation of seasonal reproduction and its principal hormone, melatonin, is an important transducer of circadian information in the neuroendocrine axis. This system provides daylength information to the reproductive axis and allows photoperiod to adjust the secretion of pituitary hormones to seasonally appropriate levels. The receptors for melatonin are concentrated in several brain sites but the highest concentration resides in the pars tuberalis. However, the functions of melatonin in this region are unknown. In this SGER, Dr. Bittman is using sophisticated molecular biological techniques to identify novel genetic targets of melatonin action in this tissue, and the brain, in general to uncover previously undescribed fundamental mechanisms by which the environment regulates reproduction. These investigations will lead to significant new insights into the regulation of fertility which may improve our ability to foster the reproduction of endangered species in the wild and in protected environments.
