Host: John Parnavelas

The neuroendocrine gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) system (also known as the luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone system) is essential for vertebrate reproductive function. Cells within this system are unusual neurons because they originate outside of the central nervous system, in the nasal placode, and thereafter migrate into the forebrain during prenatal development where they become integral members of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Several molecules have been identified shaping the GnRH migratory pathway and pattern. However, we still have many unanswered questions regarding development, maturation and regulation of these cells.

The ability to manipulate the molecular and cellular biology of GnRH neurons establishes conditions for understanding mechanisms controlling reproductive development and neuronal cells in physiological and pathological conditions.

This talk concentrates on some of the recent discoveries and future questions relevant to the development of the GnRH neurons providing clues for the types of molecules regulating the migration of these neuroendocrine cells at different steps along the route.