The overall goal of our research is to understand the endocrine, immunological, and molecular mechanisms involved in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal regulation and control of gonadal function as well as development of new drugs and drug delivery systems.

1.Isolation, amino acids sequences and radioimmunoassays of human pituitary hormones and the first early pregnancy and ovulation detection tests have been developed.

2.Clinical studies have included the evaluation of oral, injectables and implantable contraceptive devices.

3.Bovine lutropin receptor (LH-R) has been cloned and sequenced. Clones containing human LH-R and cDNAs inserts have been expressed to obtain recombinant proteins for structure function studies and epitope mapping. Monoclonal antibodies are used to map the topography of the LH-receptor to identify biologically and immunologically relevant epitopes.

4.Studies have been directed towards the identification of constituitive autonomously activating and inactivating point mutation in human LH and FSH receptor gene in patients with precocious puberty and gonadal dysfunction.


5.Studies on the effect of purified and recombinant LH-receptor as antigens on gonadal function and fertility regulation currently in vivo animal models are preformed. Antibodies against genetically engineered chimeric genes containing pituitary gonadotropin receptors and gamete antigens have been synthesized and expressed. Recombinant bifunctional proteins are used as antigens in the development of antibodies for use as immunoregulatory agents in the management of gonadal function and androgen excess syndromes.

Current research is also directed towards the development of biodegradable and non-biodegradable intravaginal rings for the delivery of non-hormonal contraceptives as well as anti-HIV and anti-cancer agents.


Recently a hydrophilic derivative of betulinol, a styrene, has been synthesized as a potent prostate cancer agent. Other betulinol derivatives for other types of cancer and their mechanism of action are being studied.