McCosh Lab

The McCosh lab investigates the neural regulation of reproduction. Specifically, we have projects investigating mechanisms by which luteinizing hormone pulses are generated and how these pulses are inhibited during stress. We are also interested in the neural pathways responsible for generating the preovulatory luteinizing hormone surge (the signal for ovulation). We employ a variety of integrative and molecular techniques in sheep, mice, and cell culture models to study kisspeptin neurons and how they are regulated.

research project

Suppression of gonadotropin secretion in stress

Luteinizing hormone (LH) is released in a pulsatile pattern to regulate gonad function. During stress, the secretion of this important hormone is inhibited. We are investigating the neural mechanisms for this process.

research project

Generation of the preovulatory LH surge

Ovulation is induced by surge-type secretion of Luteinizing Hormone in females. We are investigating the neural pathways responsible for orchestrating this pattern of LH release in mice and sheep.

research project

Chronic stress and fertility

Persistent, long-term exposure to stress is associated with impaired gonadotropin secretion and infertility in humans. We are investigating neural pathways for impaired reproductive function during chronic stress in mouse models.

Publications

Regulation of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone neuron during stress

Neuroendocrine Basis for Disrupted Ovarian Cyclicity in Female Mice During Chronic Undernutrition

Evidence that Nitric Oxide Is Critical for LH Surge Generation in Female Sheep

Insulin-induced hypoglycaemia suppresses pulsatile luteinising hormone secretion and arcuate Kiss1 cell activation in female mice

Neural and endocrine mechanisms underlying stress-induced suppression of pulsatile LH secretion

more publications

People

Portrait of Rick McCosh
Richard (Rick) McCosh, Ph.D.

Principal Investigator, Assistant Professor, Department of Biomedical Sciences

[email protected]

Lauren Young

Research Associate and Lab Manager

[email protected]

news and updates view all

November 14, 2024 Study pinpoints neurons activated during acute stress that interfere with fertility

Study finds that a specific population of neurons in the brainstem is key for regulating both neuroendocrine and behavioral responses to stress

contact information

Main Campus Office: Anatomy/Zoology Building, Room E306
Main Campus Laboratory: Anatomy/Zoology Building, Room E314

Foothills Campus Office: Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory Building, Room W117
Foothills Campus Laboratory: Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory Building, Room W100

(970) 491-6125