Elias Lab

In the Elias laboratory, we aim to unravel the neural circuitry and molecular pathways linking metabolism and reproduction. Our ultimate goal is to determine the mechanisms by which metabolic imbalance, as in obesity and diabetes, disrupts reproductive function.

The hypothalamus is the main focus of our studies as it orchestrates the autonomic, endocrine and behavioral responses necessary to maintain life and species survival. In our studies, we use genetically-engineered mouse models that allow for manipulation of genes in cell- and time-specific manners, viral vectors, molecular brain mapping, and visualization of physiological changes using dyes and reporter genes.