Grant: CIHR Fellowship

Reproduction requires energy. Therefore, energy intake, metabolism and reproduction are very tightly linked. Several hormones are involved in the regulation of both metabolism and reproduction. Defects in hormone production and/or action results in reproductive and metabolic dysfunctions. We recently characterized nesfatin-1, a novel hormone regulating various aspects of metabolism. Nesfatin-1 also modulates some pituitary hormones regulating reproduction. However, the role of nesfatin-1 on reproduction is in its infancy. The overall purpose of my research is to elucidate the role of nesfatin-1 in modulating the reproductive physiology. Using a number of advanced research tenchniques, I will try to understand whether nesfatin-1 plays a crucial role in reproduction. Second, I will study how (mechanism) nesfatin-1 elicits its effects on reproduction. Then I will determine the role of nesfatin-1 in reproduction in diabetes and obesity. Overall, my research will provide a better understanding of the newly identified metabolic hormone on reproduction. The outcome of this research will provide significant novel information on the role of nesfatin-1 on reproduction in diabetes and obesity.