Abstract
I utilize a comparative approach to mechanistically explore from the level of the whole organism to the gene how the cardiovascular system of some vertebrates can continue to function under extreme conditions such as oxygen deprivation, acute and chronic changes in temperature and exposure to other stressful stimuli. Prominent discoveries include the incredible ability of the crucian carp (Carassius carassius) to maintain cardiac activity at normal levels during 5 days of oxygen deprivation (anoxia), and that 55-66% of the bradycardia displayed by the anoxic turtle (Trachemys scripta) is driven by a re-setting of intrinsic heart rate. Current research in my laboratory at the University of Alaska Anchorage is directed to discerning: 1) the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the re-setting of cardiac pacemaking in the turtle; and 2) how the cardiorespiratory physiology of the only air-breathing fish in the Arctic, the Alaska blackfish (Dallia pectoralis), is altered to allow it to cope with winters under ice. My research goal is to continue to advance our understanding of vertebrate cardiac function under extreme conditions.
The Head of Departement, Rein Aasland, encourage everyone at the Departement to attend these most important seminars.
Coffee and buns will be served.