LE STUDIUM / Marie Skłodowska-Curie Research Fellow
From
Unit of Endocrinology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia - IT
In residence at
Host scientist
Dr Pascale Crépieux
PROJECT
Pleotropism of Gonadotropin action
Evidence exist that the gonadotropins LH and FSH can substitute to each other under certain circumstances, in addition to the fact that they can act together in granulosa cells. In this project, our aim is to investigate how the two human gonadotropins influence each other in granulosa cells expressing both receptors, or by co-culturing cells expressing either the LHCGR or the FSHR (as a model granulosa/theca interaction). To reach this aim, we will use in vitro approaches to monitor cell signaling and steroid synthesis, as well as in silico modeling to gain insight onto the dynamics of the intertwined cell response to FSH and LH. Hypotheses about the underlying mechanisms will be proposed and tested through a systems biology approach combining computational modelling and experimental measurements. This project may open new possibilities for the pharmacological manipulation of FSH and/or LH in clinical practice, in order to improve infertility treatment, (multi)follicular growth for assisted reproduction, ovulation and spermatogenesis.