Growth Biology Program

 Growth hormone (also called somatotropin) and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) are two major regulators of animal growth and development. The overall objective of my research program is to understand the molecular mechanisms by which growth hormone and IGF-I regulate animal growth and development.

Major Activities Underway:

 Current research focuses include: 1) Mechanism of regulation of growth hormone receptor gene expression; 2) Mechanism of growth hormone regulation of gene expression, in particular, the mechanism of growth hormone regulation of IGF-I gene expression; 3) Mechanism of nutritional regulation of growth hormone and IGF-I actions; and 4) Mechanism of growth hormone and IGF-I actions on mammary gland development and lactation.