Susan Wray, Ph.D.

Research focus of Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section: CDNS conducts fundamental research on neurogenesis of placodally derived neurons and the system dynamics of these cells which allow them to exhibit synchronized behavior. Our focus is on development and regulation of GnRH neurons, cells essential for reproduction. GnRH neurons originate in the nasal placode and during prenatal development migrate into the brain. Once within the brain, GnRH neurons become integral components of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and exhibit pulses of GnRH secretion in reproductively mature animals. Alterations in normal development or regulation of the GnRH system results in reproductive dysfunctions, as is seen in patients with Kallman Syndrome.

Our research addresses critical neurobiological issues such as phenotypic commitment and mechanisms involved in neuronal migration. Projects focus on craniofacial development, differentiation and migration of GnRH cells, and olfactory axon outgrowth. This system is a model for neurons exhibiting axophilic migration. Research includes: 1) signals for proper craniofacial development, 2) guidance factors that modulate neuronal migration and 3) intracellular signaling controlling cell movement and corresponding changes in cytoskeletal elements. In addition, the mechanisms regulating GnRH neuronal activity, including peptide secretion are being examined to decipher the cellular characteristics underlying neuroendocrine function and pulsatile secretion. We take advantage of the physiology of the GnRH system by examining the molecular and cellular properties of GnRH neuronal activity at different developmental, metabolic and/or reproductive states.

Research models include nasal explants, slice cultures, immortalized GnRH cell lines, and normal, cre/lox and transgenic mice. Approaches include videomicroscopy, calcium imaging, electrophysiology, immunocytochemistry, in situ histochemistry, single-cell PCR, and subtractive cDNA screening. Together, these models and approaches are used to manipulate the GnRH system.

Dr. Wray received her B.A. degree from Middlebury College and her M.S, and Ph.D. degrees from University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry where she worked on development of neuroendocrine systems associated with puberty. She continued her work on neuroendocrine systems as a postdoctoral fellow with Harold Gainer in NICHD. In 1992 she became a faculty member of NINDS as a Unit Chief in the Laboratory of Neurochemistry and in 1999 became Chief of the newly created Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section. She is a council member of the International Society of Neuroendocrinology and a founding member of the American Neuroendocrine Society. Dr. Wray's laboratory is studying developmental cues underlying neuronal migration, and neurogenesis and regulation of neuroendocrine cells essential for reproduction.