Karen Chou
- Associate Professor, Department of Animal Science
- Anthony Hall
- 474 S Shaw Ln Room 2209E
- East Lansing MI 48824
- 517-432-1392
- chouk@msu.edu
RESEARCH INTERESTS
Dr. Chou is a reproductive toxicologist, specifically interested in the developmental effects of environmental contaminants. She studies environmental agricultural and reproductive toxicology (environmental toxicants and their role in fertility and birth defects) and exposure and health effects of environmental chemicals in mammalian species, with a focus on developmental and reproductive toxicity. Her laboratory examines the mechanism of toxicity of pesticides and endocrine disrupters on testicular function, sperm and egg production, and fertility. The target mechanisms include the functions of endocrine systems, production of reactive oxygen species, and the relationship between clusters of alternations in gene expression and long-term reproductive performance. A second major focus of her laboratory is the development of improved semen preservation methods for livestock. The study models include laboratory animals, livestock, and cultured gametes.
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Fu Jen Catholic University, B.S., 1973, Human Nutrition
Michigan State University, M.S., 1980, Dairy Science
University of Michigan, Ph.D., 1987, Toxicology
AFFILIATED WEBSITES
https://www.canr.msu.edu/people/dr_karen_chou