Karen Chou

Associate Professor, Animal Science

2209 Anthony Hall
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 disruptors 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 

Selected Professional Activities:
Dr. Chou has received the following honors and awards: she holds U.S. patent for the process of sperm capacitation; was elected member by the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, recognized by MSU Women Achieving Excellence Program and was a recipient of the Excellence Award for Interdisciplinary Scholarship by the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi.

Publications:

Search PubMed at the National Library of Medicine: