John H. Schild

John H. Schild is an Associate Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at Indiana University's School of Science. His research focuses on neural mechanisms underlying cardiovascular homeostasis and disease, particularly the autonomic nervous system (ANS), ion channels, and gender-related differences in baroreceptor function. He holds a Ph.D. in Bioengineering from Rice University (1994), with postdoctoral training at Oregon Health and Science University and Baylor College of Medicine.

Research Interests: Dr. Schild investigates how ion channels and pharmacological interventions impact neurosensory reflexes in the ANS, with a focus on the baroreceptor reflex (BRX). His lab employs techniques like in vitro patch clamp recordings and aortic arch preparations to study BR afferents and neural circuits in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS). Notably, his team discovered gender biases in baroreceptor fiber types, with females having 50% more myelinated BR fibers, influenced by estradiol and GPR30 signaling. These findings aim to improve cardiovascular disease management through gender-specific approaches.

Grants & Funding: Supported by the American Heart Association and NIH grants (HL081819, HL072012). His work bridges basic neuroscience with clinical cardiology, emphasizing translational applications. The lab collaborates on neurocirculatory dynamics and integrates animal models to explore sexual dimorphism in cardiovascular health.