معرفی
Lynn K Hartzler serves as Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences at Wright State University, where she leads research on vertebrate respiratory neurophysiology with emphasis on environmental and metabolic adaptations.
Her primary research explores neurophysiological mechanisms of acid-base regulation, focusing on brainstem chemoreceptor responses to temperature fluctuations, exercise, and feeding in poikilothermic vertebrates. Using fluorescence imaging microscopy and whole-cell electrophysiology, she investigates neuronal sensitivity to CO2, O2, and pH changes in species including bullfrogs and monitor lizards, with particular attention to locus coeruleus function and respiratory network plasticity.
Analysis of her 15 most recent publications (2011-2023) reveals consistent investigation of respiratory control systems across amphibians and reptiles, demonstrating expertise in temperature-dependent chemosensitivity, overwintering adaptations, and neural circuit responses to metabolic challenges. Her work predominantly employs in vitro brainstem preparations to isolate neuronal mechanisms underlying breathing regulation.
Dr. Hartzler directs an active research laboratory utilizing electrophysiological and imaging techniques to study respiratory control circuits in non-mammalian models, with experimental systems including bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) and monitor lizard (Varanus exanthematicus) brainstem preparations.
