Peter G Smith Ph.D. (Co-Director)

The potential for nervous system recovery after injury is far greater than previously recognized. Research in this laboratory investigates two forms of plasticity associated with functional recovery after nervous system injury: formation of new neural pathways, and changes in uninjured neurons that may compensate for deficits owing to neuronal death. Our studies primarily utilize the peripheral autonomic innervation of the eye, as this is a comparatively simple model system where cause and effect can be readily determined. We use a wide array of techniques including immunocytochemistry, molecular biology, neuroanatomical tracing, neuropharmacology and electrophysiology to provide a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying nervous system plasticity.

Smith, P.G. and Beauregard, C.L. (1993) Conversion of parasympathetic nerve function from prejunctional inhibition to postjunctional excitation following sympathectomy of rat periorbital smooth muscle. Brain Research 629:319-322.

Smith, P.G. and Fan, Q. (1996) Trajectory of sympathetic innervation to rat orbital targets: role of connective tissue pathways. Journal of Comparative Neurology, 365:69-78.

Beauregard, C.L. and Smith, P.G. (1996) Parasympathetic excitation of sympathetic neurotransmission following cholinesterase inhibition. British Journal of Pharmacology, 117: 51-54.