Thesis supervisor: Márta Balaskó
co-supervisor: János Garai
Location of studies (in Hungarian): PTE ÁOK Pécs, Szigeti u. 12. Abbreviation of location of studies: ÁOK
Description of the research topic:
Complex peripheral and central regulatory alterations may be assumed in the background of long-term tendencies of energy homeostasis regarding obesity of the middle-aged and the weight loss and cachexia of old age-groups, since these phenomena are not only observed in humans but also in mammals. Based on characteristic gender differences in these age-related changes of body weight and body composition, a potential role of sex hormones in these regulatory alterations emerges. Beneficial effects of alpha estrogen receptors on energy homeostasis were described, but their contribution to age-related alterations are still obscure. The role of beta estrogen receptors in energy homeostasis and its age-related alterations is also largely unexplored. The importance of the field is further enhanced by the fact that our food and drinking water may contain such pollutants that may negatively affect estrogen receptor functions, i.e. endocrine disruptors. In the PhD program we aim to compare data obtained from male and female, ovariectomized and intact female laboratory rodents concerning the effects of estrogen on the development and age-related peripheral and central regulatory alterations of energy homeostasis. In addition to the regular measurements of body weight and food intake, responsiveness of catabolic (e.g. melanocortins, corticotropins) and anabolic (e.g. neuropeptide Y, agouti-related peptide, orexin) regulatory systems will be tested in different age-groups. Food intake will be recorded in an automated FeedScale system, core temperature, heart rate and spontaneous locomotor activity will be registered in a biotelemetric (MiniMitter) system. These studies will be complemented by measurements of oxygen consumption (metabolic rate/heat production) using indirect calorimetry (Oxymax) and simultaneous measurements of core and tail skin (heat loss) temperatures for complete thermoregulatory analysis.
Number of students who can be accepted: 1
Deadline for application: 2022-05-20
2024. IV. 17. ODT ülés Az ODT következő ülésére 2024. június 14-én, pénteken 10.00 órakor kerül sor a Semmelweis Egyetem Szenátusi termében (Bp. Üllői út 26. I. emelet).
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