Welcome, this is an explaination of the animal models that we utilize, current and previous researchers (including students and postdocs who have graduated and moved on), and abstracts of our recent work. Use the navigation buttons at the left to find your way around.
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The mechanisms behind why neural and hormonal stress responses are different between individuals and at different times is the focus of our laboratory. The connections between neural and endocrine stress responses and variability in the magnitude and way in which individuals respond to and cope with stress behaviorally are what we investigate. There are differing reactions to stress among individuals, including responses of many different hormones and neurotransmitters. We are interested in elucidating the mechanisms by which experience modulates the responsiveness of neural and hormonal stress responses. These studies include measuring behaviorally stimulated changes in biogenic amines by HPLC using microdialysis and brain punch microdissection; mapping transmitters, neuroactive peptides and receptors immunohistochemically in the brain; and relating physiology and anatomy to behavior, ecology and evolution. To study these mechanisms we utilize vertebrate model systems, especially the lizard Anolis carolinensis. We are also interested in the relationships between stress, biological rhythms, and reproduction.

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Email Dr. Summers: Cliff@USD.Edu

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