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joneill@usuhs.mil
Ph.D., Johns Hopkins University, 1980
Mechanisms of Control of the Brains Blood Flow and Nutrient Supply
As an important organ system of the body, the brain has evolved processes that ensure it receives an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients. Under stressful conditions (shock, hypoxia, anoxia, asphyxia), as well as changes in blood pressure, the brain blood supply remains stable, and blood flow is controlled to accommodate changing needs for oxygen and glucose. Dr. O'Neill is investigating these adaptive processes by determining how some molecules (nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, adenosine, hemoglobin and neurotransmitters) act to control blood flow in the brain. In addition his lab investigates some of the molecular and genetic consequences of reduced oxygen supply. Several approaches to measure blood flow are employed including, radioactive and colored microspheres, electromagnetic flow probes, and laser-Doppler techniques. Molecular and genetic consequences are evaluated using immunohistochemistry, western blotting and PCR techniques.
He is particularly interested in developmental aspects of blood flow control and its consequences. Newborns can sustain severe brain damage when the blood, oxygen or nutrient supply to the brain is inappropriate. In addition, it appears that some of the control mechanisms operative in the adult are not present or are not fully developed in the newborn. Also, normal brain development can be disrupted when oxygen supply is inappropriate during development. Development is studied by tracking cellular migration, interaction and interconnection.
Recently, Dr. O'Neill has become interested in some of the molecular consequences of both low and high oxygen supply to the brain. He is investigating some molecular and genetic effects of reduced and enhanced oxygen supply to the brain. He is also investigating brain development as a consequence of low oxygen supply during pregnancy.
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