On 23 July 2025, the Department of Neuroscience at City University of Hong Kong hosted a joint seminar featuring Dr Margaritis Voliotis and Dr Joel Tabak-Sznajder from the University of Exeter, UK. The researchers presented complementary mathematical approaches to understanding pulsatile hormone regulation in reproductive neuroscience.
Dr Margaritis Voliotis: How KNDy Neurons Generate Pulsatile Dynamics: Insights from a Mathematical Model
Dr Voliotis investigated the mechanisms underlying pulsatile gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion, essential for reproductive function. Focusing on hypothalamic KNDy neurons (co-expressing Kisspeptin, Neurokinin B, and Dynorphin), he demonstrated how integrated in-vitro experimentation and computational modeling:
- Reveals how continuous biological inputs transform into pulsatile GnRH outputs
- Uncovers how gonadal steroids dynamically regulate pulse frequency across ovarian cycles
- Quantifies noise management in biological information transmission
Dr Joel Tabak-Sznajder: How Structure Affects Synchronisation in the GnRH Pulse Generator
Dr Tabak-Sznajder addressed the fundamental question of how KNDy neurons achieve population-level synchronization to drive hormone pulses. Through physics-based neural network modeling, he demonstrated:
- Modular network architecture reconciles conflicting experimental data
- Structural connectivity enables emergent synchronization without pacemaker cells
- Conservation of rhythm-generation principles from tadpole spinal cords to mammalian hypothalamus
Both talks highlighted how interdisciplinary approaches bridge mathematical rigor and neuroendocrine biology. Dr Voliotis' statistical analysis of biological noise complemented Dr Tabak-Sznajder's focus on network topology, providing dual perspectives on reproductive rhythm generation.
The seminar stimulated vibrant discussion on mathematical frameworks for neuroendocrine function, with particular interest in clinical applications for fertility disorders. We extend our appreciation to both speakers for their insightful contributions to our seminar series.