Our research focus

Our research program aims to understand the mechanisms controlling reproduction at different levels: from its molecular basis to the systemic communication between brain and gonads. These are some of our current project:

A) PCOS & the female neuroendocrine brain

The most common endocrine cause of women's infertility is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) with an estimated prevalence of 10-15% globally. PCOS is characterized by hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, and menstrual irregularities. Despite its high prevalence, the etiology of PCOS remains poorly understood, which complicates its management and highlights the need for further research into its underlying mechanisms. In PCOS, alterations in hypothalamic function can disrupt the balance of hormones such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), leading to increased androgen production by the ovaries and infertility. Beyond this reproductive-centered complications, PCOS is highly associated with metabolic syndrome, which in turn, impacts reproductive function. It also remains largely unexplored the neuroendocrine mechanisms driving metabolic impairment in PCOS. Here, we aim to understand these brain-centered mechanisms and uncover new targeted treatments that address both reproductive and metabolic symptoms of PCOS. 

B) Brain-to-ovary communication in health and disease

The regulation of ovarian function has traditionally been understood through neuroendocrine networks and pituitary hormones within the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Additionally, the autonomic nervous system plays a vital role in supporting ovarian steroid production, regulating gonadal blood flow, and facilitating ovulation. However, the central mechanisms driving this autonomic regulation of ovarian function are still not fully understood. Intriguingly, women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) commonly exhibit heightened sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) and elevated intra-ovarian levels of nerve growth factor (NGF), a key marker of local sympathetic tone, placing them at increased risk for sympathovagal imbalance and associated cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. Our research focuses on unraveling the central and autonomic mechanisms that regulate ovarian function in both health and disease, with a particular emphasis on understanding these processes in PCOS.

C) Brain pathways involved in hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD)

Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) is a complex condition influenced by biological, psychological, cultural, and social factors, affecting an estimated 8-15% of men and women worldwide. Characterized by a persistent lack of sexual desire, HSDD can significantly impact emotional well-being, strain relationships, and reduce quality of life. Beyond the personal dimensions and subjectivities of sexual pleasure, there is an urgent need for further research to enhance sexual health and improve life quality for individuals affected by HSDD. Emerging research highlights the role of neuroendocrine circuits in the brain as critical pathways regulating sexual behavior, offering insights into the underlying mechanisms of HSDD and potential therapeutic targets. Our laboratory proposes to invest in investigations uncovering neuronal and glial players in the sexual brain and in HSDD using animal models.