Comparative Neuroanatomy Analysis of the Human Brainstem

Photo of section through the human brainstem showing the structure called the inferior olive in four different cases.

Understanding the neurochemical organization of the human brainstem has implications for understanding major neurological disorders including epilepsy, tinnitus, hyperacusis and ataxia.

Project description

The project entails preparing and analyzing Nissl and immunostained sections through the human brainstem. Tissue has been obtained from the Witelson Normal Brain Collection. Structures to be analyzed include the Superior Olivary Complex and brainstem nuclei related to the vagus nerve, e.g. the nucleus of the solitary tract.

Project outcome

Descriptive analysis of brainstem structures in human compared to other mammals could be the first the topic of a poster and eventually of a research publication in journals such as Brain Structure and Function, or Anatomical Record.

Learning outcomes

The specific outcomes of this project will be identified by the faculty mentor at the beginning of your collaboration. 

Project details

Timing, eligibility and other details
Length of commitment About a semester; 3-5 months
Start time Anytime
In-person, remote, or hybrid? In-Person
Level of collaboration Individual student project
Benefits Potential academic credit
Who is eligible Sophomores, juniors and seniors with a strong interest in Neuroscience. Baseline knowledge of the nervous system, biology, psychology and neuroscience would be useful but not required. 

Project mentor

Joan Baizer

Professor

Physiology and Biophysics

Phone: (716) 829-3096

Email: baizer@buffalo.edu

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Preparation activities

The specific preparation activities for this project will be customized through discussions between you and your project mentor. Please be sure to ask them for the instructions to complete the required preparation activities.

Keywords

neuroscience, biology, physiology, anatomy, physiology and biophysics