Rodent model of hemispatial neglect: Neglect occurs in humans after cortical infarct in a high percentage of cases of right hemisphere stroke.Over the past 20 years, we and our colleagues have developed a rat model to investigate the circuitry and pharmacology mediating directed attention and its dysfunctional state, contralateral neglect, and to explore potential therapies for inducing neural repair and functional recovery. Normal directed attention is mediated by circuitry involving specific areas of cerebral cortex, striatum and thalamus. The dorsocentral striatum, site of convergence of a variety of these cortical projections, is crucial for acute induced recovery. Currently, we are focusing on the use of antibodies supplied by Novartis to induce axonal sprouting in the dorsocentral striatum, and long term behavioral recovery. In addition we are investigating the neuronal connections of the circuitry related to neglect. These studies involve the use of quantitative image analysis.
Manatees possess specialized tactile bristles and hairs which are distributed over the entire body surface. We hypothesize that Sirenia have developed a mammalian version of the lateral line system which detects water currents, approaching animals and other stimuli producing underwater vibrational signals not detectable through the auditory system. In collaboration with colleagues at Mote Marine Laboratory, we are performing behavioral experiments to investigate the functional capacity of this system. For her PhD research, Diana Sarko is investigating the innervation of the tactile hairs and the organization of central somatosensory pathways in the brainstem, thalamus, and cerebral cortex.
Manatee bone has several unusual structural and functional properties. In collaboration with colleagues in the College of Engineering, we are studying the biomechanical and material properties of manatee rib bone. This represents Kari Clifton’s PhD research. The results will help us to better understand the dynamics of rib fracture during collisions between boats and manatees, and will provide a scientific basis for decisions concerning establishment of slow boat speed zones in areas of high manatee usage.