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Primary Faculty
Contact
- Department of Biology
- 229 Gilmer Hall
- 485 McCormick Road
- P.O. Box 400328
- Charlottesville, VA 22904
WOLFGANG OTTO FRIESEN
EDUCATION
RESEARCH INTERESTS
Our research goal is to identify and describe neuronal mechanisms that underlie animal behavior. We concentrate on rhythmic movements, which are particularly tractable for such studies. The neuronal systems that control animal movement comprise neuronal oscillator circuits, usually interneurons located within the central nervous system; motor neurons to coordinate muscle tensions; and sensory receptors that modify and adapt the central neuronal pattern to the specific structure of the animal and to its environment. We study the relatively simple movements (swimming) of one favorable invertebrate, the medicinal leech. Currently we are investigating 1) mechanisms by which brief sensory input evokes prolonged behavioral motor patterns and 2) the roles of sensory input in shaping neuronal activity patterns to generate effective locomotion. In addition, we are continuing to develop NeuroDynamix II , a graphical suite of computer models, to simulate dynamic properties of complex neuronal circuits, therewith to explore the behavioral implications of identified neuronal circuits and to investigate conceptual models. Our primary techniques include electrophysiological recording from identified neurons, pharma-cological manipulations, and computer modeling.
For more information about research interests, see my lab website
REPRESENTATIVE PUBLICATIONS