Chad D. Foradori, PhD
Professor, Microanatomy, Organology, and Endocrinology
334-844-6742
foradori@auburn.edu
Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology
Auburn University
College of Veterinary Medicine
1130 Wire Road
Auburn, AL 36849
Education
B.S. 1998, Muskingham University
PhD 2003, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine
Professional Experience
Post-doctoral Fellow, Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
Research Assistant Professor, University of Arizona College of Medicine
Assistant Professor, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine
Associate Professor, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine
Biography
Dr. Foradori joined the Auburn University faculty in 2010. A native of Pennsylvania, Dr. Foradori received a B.S. degree from Muskingum University in New Concord, OH, and a PhD degree from the University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine. Dr. Foradori continued his training as a postdoctoral fellow at Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. Before joining the faculty at Auburn, Dr. Foradori was a research assistant professor at the University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix.
Dr. Foradori’s research focuses on the neuroendocrine control of reproduction. Specifically, what factors mediate the release of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). GnRH regulation from specialized neurons in the brain requires the translation of neural and hormonal inputs into a precisely regulated output to achieve sexual development and gonadal function. Changes in the pulsatile secretion of GnRH are critical for the regulation of events leading to ovulation, puberty and gamete development. Despite the importance of GnRH neuronal activity in mammalian reproduction, little is known about the inputs controlling the coordination of GnRH neurons resulting in pulsatile and preovulatory release. The paucity of knowledge is due to the fact that GnRH neurons have a limited number of synaptic inputs and express a relatively small number of steroid receptors. One way to identify the underlying mechanisms involved in the normal control of GnRH neurons is to examine the system during periods of distress or after developmental insults. Therefore, my research examines the effects of environmental factors which may alter GnRH activation. In doing so, we will be better able to identify those factors essential for normal reproductive function and develop intervention strategies to protect against environmental factors that may perturb reproductive function.
Research Interests
Neuroendocrinology; Environmental Endocrine Disruptors
Academic Areas
Microanatomy, Endocrinology
Key Words
reproduction, endocrine disruptors, neuroendocrinology