Principal Investigator
Dr Teodora Georgescu
Email teodora.georgescu@otago.ac.nz
Tel +64 3 556 5460
Research interests
My research group focuses on the adaptations to autonomic functions that occur during pregnancy and lactation, driven by changes in maternal hormone levels. These physiological adaptations are crucial for both maternal health and the development of the offspring. Pregnancy induces significant elevations in hormones such as oestrogen, progesterone, and lactogenic hormones. We aim to uncover how these pregnancy hormones act on their receptors in the brain to regulate autonomic functions, such as fever, breathing, and cardiovascular responses during pregnancy. Inadequate adaptations in these systems can lead to pregnancy complications like gestational hypertension and dyspnoea, highlighting the need to understand these mechanisms.
Our laboratory employs techniques such as radio telemetry, ex vivo and in vivo calcium imaging, viral manipulation of neuronal circuits, and immunohistochemistry to investigate how maternal hormones impact the brain to regulate physiological functions. By investigating these processes, we aim to ultimately improve maternal and foetal health.
Clinical conditions
- Infections and fevers
- Dyspnoea
- Preeclampsia
Georgescu Laboratory staff and students
Andy Stewart, PhD student
Email stean207@student.otago.ac.nz
Anita Jessie Clark, Honours student
Andrew Habin Lee, MSc student