Iain M. Miller, Ph.D.
The Research
Ohio University
The distribution of glutamate receptors in the turtle utricle: a confocal and electron microscope study
When stimulated by acceleration and head tilt (gravity), sensory hair cells in the turtle utricle, an organ in the inner ear, transmit information about these stimuli to the brain. The long term goal of this research is to understand what role synaptic structure and composition play in the observed spatially heterogeneous and diverse discharge properties of afferents supplying the vestibular end organs, and in particular, the utricle. This knowledge is central for accurate diagnosis and rational treatment strategies for vestibular dysfunction.