New models for the onset of virilisation in the developing male [ 2005 - 2007 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Marilyn Renfree (Principal investigator) ,  A/Pr Andrew Pask ,  E/Pr Geoffrey Shaw ,  E/Pr Jean Wilson

Brief description Impairment of virilisation is one of the most common developmental defects in humans, yet over half the cases cannot be explained by our current knowledge. Studies of these processes are hindered because in most mammals virilisation occurs in utero, in the early fetus. Our recent studies using marsupials, where virilisation occurs after birth show that this process is mediated by 5-alpha-androstanediol, a hormone with previously undetermined physiological function. We will conduct experiments using tammar wallabies, to test hypotheses that explain why different male tissues - such as the reproductive ducts, prostate and penis - start to differentiate at widely different times. We will investigate pathways of androgen formation and the activation and inactivation of hormones in the target organs, and the role of hormone binding proteins. We will also investigate the role of growth factors that may mediate growth of the penis during early development. The results of these experiments will direct funding in subsequent years to test for corresponding gene mutations in our collection of over 200 specimens from patients with defects of virilization (pseudohermaphroditism) whose causes are still unknown. It is our expectation that the findings in these studies will provide insight not only into the pathways by which testicular hormones masculinize the developing male, but will also explain instances of male pseudohermaphroditism of unknown aetiology in humans.

Funding Amount $AUD 405,750.00

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant