About: hooper

Website

http://crab-lab.zool.ohiou.edu/hooper

Profile

Rhythmic neuronal activity is widespread in nervous systems, and plays a central role in certain types of sensory processing, in motor pattern production, and possibly (in vertebrates) in attention. These rhythms are generated endogenously (i.e., they can continue without rhythmic sensory input) by central neural networks, and hence are an example of the nervous system's ability to spontaneously create patterns. Network rhythmicity has been extensively studied in several invertebrate preparations and in the lamprey, and we now have a good general understanding of the mechanisms underlying it. However, we understand relatively little about its dynamic regulation (e.g., how rhythmic pattern frequency and phasing are controlled), and, in the case of motor systems, how these neural networks interact with their peripheral effectors (the musculoskeletal system) so as to continually generate behaviorally relevant, functional motor outputs. Our lab studies these issues in the pyloric neuromuscular system of the lobster. The pyloric neural network produces a wide range of rhythmic neural outputs (similar to our ability to walk, run, hop, etc.), but has only 15 neurons divided into 6 neuronal types. As a result of this small size, the mechanisms underlying the activity of this small neural computer can be studied on the individual neuron and network level. Similarly, the muscles that the network innervates are known, and thus how the nervous system and the periphery interact to produce behavior can also be studied on a well-defined and fundamental level. Our research techniques include computational modeling, neuronal electrophysiology, and measurement of muscle electrical and contractile responses to neuronal input. Undergraduates can contribute to this effort in any of these areas; due to the preparation's experimental advantages, undergraduates can generally be making significant scientific contributions within their first quarter of work.