Sandra L. Petersen
Professor and Associate Graduate Dean
Department of Veterinary & Animal Sciences
University of Massachusetts
Amherst, MA 01003
(413) 545-4300 spetersen@vasci.umass.edu website
Neural effects of steroids and envrionmental pollutants
We use molecular and cellular approaches to understand how ovarian steroids activate neurons that activate pituitary release of luteinizing horome and ovulation. We also study the molecular and cellular mechanisms through which steroids direct sexual differentiation of the brain and how dioxins interfere with these mechanisms.
Research Interest
Potential Application
Membrane effects of steroids
Development of ligands to probe non-nuclear steroid effects
Membrane effects of steroids
Development of pharmaceutical agents to target membrane steroid receptors
Dioxin effects in brain development
Risk assessment and regulation
University of Massachusetts
Institute for Cellular Engineering
686 North Pleasant Street
159 Goessmann Laboratory
Amherst, MA 01003
