RPG: Dynamics of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary System in the Ranid Frogs

本研究计划补助金（RPG）的目的是研究牛蛙内源性促性腺激素释放激素（GnRH）释放的时间模式。蛙类flogs是非常独特的，因为它们是迄今为止已知的唯一四足动物，显示出真正的生理偏好，连续的，而不是脉冲式的，GnRH输入维持促性腺激素分泌。基于这一观察，有人假设，与哺乳动物和鸟类不同，蛙类的繁殖是由内源性GnRH的持续释放驱动的。 这一假设将直接测试在这个研究计划补助金通过调查的时间模式GnRH释放牛蛙下丘脑切片使用体外灌注系统。RPG的结果将提供生理基础，为今后的调查机制，持续的GnRH刺激支持整体生殖功能。此外，这些数据将有助于了解一个潜在的非常新颖的下丘脑-垂体系统的动力学。

The goal of this Research Planning Grant (RPG) is to examine the temporal pattern of endogenous gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release in the bullfrog, Rana catesbeiana. Ranid flogs are highly unique in that they are the only tetrapods known to date to display a true physiological preference for continuous, rather than pulsatile, GnRH input for the maintenance of gonadotropin secretion. Based on this observation, it is hypothesized that unlike mammals and birds, reproduction in ranid frogs is driven by continuous release of endogenous GnRH. This hypothesis will be tested directly in this Research Planning Grant by investigating the temporal pattern of GnRH release from bullfrog hypothalamic slices using an in vitro perfusion system. The RPG results will provide the physiological basis for future investigations into the mechanisms by which continuous GnRH stimulation supports the overall reproductive functions. In addition, these data will facilitate the understanding of the dynamics of a potentially very novel hypothalamic-pituitary system.