Investigation is aimed at elucidating the mechanisms that cells employ in regulating their volume under normal conditions and during osmotic stress. We are examining this question in fish, since many representatives of this group normally more>> encounter wide variations in osmolarity of the external environment and can tolerate marked perturbations in the osmotic pressure of their extracellular fluid.
The major goal of my research is to understand the physiological mechanisms that adapt animals to stresses such as anoxia, acidosis, and variable temperature. The focus is on ectothermic vertebrates, such as freshwater turtles, that can more>> survive long periods without oxygen and can function over a wide range of body temperatures. Studies are carried out on whole animals, on isolated organs, and on cell preparations. Current research seeks to understand the mechanisms that permit a freshwater turtle to survive prolonged submergence, particularly during its winter hibernation when ice cover prevents breathing.