Animal & Dairy Science: Personnel
Clay Lents
Assistant Professor
B.S., Cameron Univeristy, Lawton OK.
M.S., Oklahoma State University
PhD, Oklahoma State University
Edgar L. Rhodes Center for ADS
University of Georgia
Athens, GA 30602-2771
Phone: 706/542-7048
Fax: 706/583-0274
Email: clents@uga.edu
Description of Research and Teaching Interests
The focus of my program is to develop basic understanding of metabolic modulation and neuroendocrine control of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis and its regulation of reproductive efficiency in ruminants and swine. I employ a number of nutritional, physiological and genomic approaches to combine classic whole animal studies with in vitro laboratory experiments. To study complex interrelationships of environmental, nutritional, and neuroendocrine factors with the hypothalamus, pituitary gland and peripheral target glands, such as the ovaries, requires the development new hypotheses and objectives as well as significant extension of existing ones. My goals are to: 1) identify specific metabolic signals and neuronal derived peptide hormones that regulate the growth and reproductive axis, 2) identify sites and mechanisms of action of these factors in regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary axis and reproductive function, and 3) develop new strategies and therapies that utilize these central control points to improve reproductive efficiency and lengthen reproductive life. Specific research in my laboratory currently focuses on the study of: A) neurological mechanisms regulating the onset of puberty in the gilt, B) target genes associated with prolonged weaning to estrus interval in the sow, C) neurological mechanisms involved in negative regulation of the pituitary gland in sheep and gilts, and D) relationship between residual feed intake and reproductive performance of replacement beef heifers. I also collaborate with ARS scientists to investigate mechanisms that are involved in the control of seasonal infertility of sows.
Courses Taught
ADSC 8400 Advanced Animal Reproduction
ADSC 4410/6410 Applied Reproductive Management in Cattle and Swine
Selected Recent Publications
Barb, C. R., G. J. Hausman, and C. A. Lents. 2008. Energy metabolism and leptin: effects on neuroendocrine regulation of reproduction in the gilt and sow. Reprod. Domest. Anim. 43(Suppl. 2):324-330.
Lents, C. A., F. J. White, N. H. Ciccioli, L. J. Spicer, R. P. Wettemann, and D. L. Lalman. 2008. Effects of body condition score at parturition and postpartum protein supplementation on estrous behavior and size of the dominant follicle in beef cows. J. Anim. Sci. (Accepted) doi:10.2527/jas.2008-1114.Lents, C. A., N. H. Heidorn, C. R. Barb, and J. J. Ford. 2008. Central and peripheral administration of kisspeptin activates gonadotropin but not somatotropin secretion in prepubertal gilts. Reproduction 135:879-887.
Lents, C. A., R. P. Wettemann, M. J. Paape, M. L. Looper, and D. S. Buchanan. 2008. Effects of dry cow treatment of beef cows on pathogenic organisms, milk somatic cell counts, and calf growth during the subsequent lactation. J. Anim. Sci. 86:748-755.