Dr Alison Forhead

Development and regulation of endocrine systems in the fetus

These studies have examined the bioavailability of hormones in the fetus, in particular, the glucocorticoids, thyroid hormones, leptin, insulin-like growth factors and the renin-angiotensin system.  Analyses of hormone systems in utero have included measurements of circulating concentrations, tissue metabolism and metabolic enzymes, cellular uptake mechanisms and receptor expression.  These studies have demonstrated complex interactions between endocrine systems before birth and have elucidated a variety of cellular and molecular mechanisms of developmental control.

Hormonal control of fetal growth, development and maturation

My research has investigated the role of hormones in the regulation of normal fetal development.  These studies have an integrative approach by examining a wide variety of fetal tissues and organs, and aspects of fetal physiology, including growth, cardiovascular, lung and renal function, nutrition and metabolism.  In particular, several of these studies have established the importance of endocrine signals in fetal maturation near to delivery and in the successful transition from the intrauterine to extrauterine environment at birth.  I have investigated the mechanisms of glucocorticoid action in several physiological systems, and demonstrated the key roles of other hormones, such as thyroid hormones and angiotensin II, in mediating many of the maturational effects of glucocorticoids.

Overall, my research has an integrative approach to the study of mammalian endocrinology and systems animal physiology.  The research findings have important implications for the understanding of normal fetal growth and development; the consequences of prematurity, intrauterine growth retardation and fetal endocrine disorders; and the mechanisms underlying the developmental programming of adult (patho)physiology. 

Collaborators

Professor Abigail Fowden, PDN, University of Cambridge
Dr Dino Giussani, PDN, University of Cambridge
Dr Sue Ozanne, Institute of Metabolic Science, University of Cambridge
Professor Gordon Smith, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge
Dr Dominique Blache, University of Western Australia, Australia
Professor Min Du, Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University
Professor Richard Oreffo, Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton
Dr Theo Visser, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
Dr Sean Limesand, University of Arizona, Tucson, USA