JAIMES HOY, ELIZABETH LORRAINE

Our laboratory is dedicated to elucidating the neuroendocrine mechanisms that regulate energy homeostasis, with a particular emphasis on the role of hypophysiotropic thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) neurons. We investigate how these neurons integrate metabolic signals to modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis, thereby influencing systemic energy balance.​

A significant aspect of our research involves exploring the interplay between TRH neuronal activity and peripheral tissue metabolism, especially in the context of stress, diet and exercise. Utilizing chemogenetic tools such as Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADDs), we aim to manipulate TRH neuron activity in a tissue-, cell-, and time-specific manner. This approach allows us to dissect the contributions of these neurons to the metabolic adaptations observed in white adipose tissue during chronic aerobic exercise.​

Our ultimate goal is to advance the understanding of central regulatory circuits governing energy metabolism, which may inform the development of novel therapeutic strategies for metabolic disorders.