Health
Sciences Center
Hospital
and Clinic
Primate
Center
Public
Health
Tropical Medicine
Johnny R. Porter, Ph.D.
(Neuroendocrinology of obesity)Professor of Physiology, Mecicine,
Pharmacology, and Neuroscience
Ph.D.: 1973, LSUHSC New Orleans
Postdoctoral: VA Hospital, New Orleans (with Abba Kastin)
Our
laboratory conducts studies that are directed toward the understanding
of neuroendocrine mechanisms in the hypothalamus as they relate to caloric
intake, body weight regulation, and the pathophysiology of obesity. To
achieve these goals we study a genetic model of obesity. Techniques utilized
to accomplish our goals include behavior studies, techniques for drug
administration and implantation, high performance liquid chromatography
and in situ hybridization utilizing radiolabelled antisense olignucleotide
to detect specific mRNA activation. Our studies have focused on the brain
action of the neurosteroid DHEA and its interaction with monoaminergic
systems and the anorectic drugs. Recently we have begun studies on interaction
of cytokines and monoaminergic systems in the hypothalamus We are specifically
interested in determining the basal interaction of these two systems in
lean and obese (diabetic) rats in a situation of inflammation. We predict
that DHEA can reverse the pathological consequences of inflammation by
an action in the central nervous system
Recent Publications:
A PubMed listing of research publications for Johnny R. Porter, Ph.D
Contact:
LSUHMC School of Dentistryphysjrp@lsuhsc.edu
504 619-8555
1430 Tulane Ave., New Orleans, LA 70112
504-988-5251; Fax # 504-988-2675