The goals of my laboratory are to determine some of the underlying mechanisms which operate within the monkey's visual system in order to understand how sensory systems of the brain work and to apply this knowledge to clinically relevant problems such as amblyopia. Anatomical, physiological and behavioral methods are all being used to answer questions on these issues. Presently, electrophysiological recordings of single neurons in the lateral geniculate nucleus provide basic information about the neuron's response properties followed by electron microscopy of that same neuron to correlate with the synaptic morphology and physiology.
Further projects include immunocytochemistry of brainstem afferents to the visual system (such as serotonin and acetylcholine) and the use of extended-wear soft contact lenses to correct the vision of aphakic infant monkeys. Because the morphology and function of the monkey's visual systems quite similar to that of man, the monkey is good model for studying this sensory system.
Recent Publications: