Molecular mechanisms of endocrine disruption along the reproductive axis in fish

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The major objective of this research program is to obtain a mechanistic understanding of how sex steroids (estrogens and androgens) mediate reproduction in fish and how these processes are affected by aquatic contaminants found in our environment. By characterizing molecular signaling cascades along the brain-pituitary-gonad-liver or reproductive axis, we will be able to develop molecular fingerprints or biomarkers which are useful in predicting adverse affects in wildlife health. This is important because many pesticides and herbicides used for agricultural practices in the Atlantic Provinces and throughout Canada enter water systems via runoff, acting as endocrine disrupting chemicals and negatively impact fish populations.