Profile of Simon Gosgnach, PhD
Assistant Professor
7-47 Medical Sciences Building
University of Alberta
Edmonton, Alberta
Canada T6G 2H7
Tel: 780.492.8090
Education
- PhD Physiology, University of Manitoba, 2003
Research
Neural networks known as Central Pattern Generators (CPGs) are able to produce functional motor outputs in the absence of sensory input. By investigating the structure and function of these CPGs we can learn how the nervous system produces essential behaviors such as breathing, swallowing, chewing, and walking. Work in my lab is focussed on studying the CPG for walking (i.e. locomotion). We are using a multidisciplinary approach involving molecular genetics, histology and electrophysiology to determine how the neural networks that produce locomotor behaviour are assembled during development and how they are activated to produce functional locomotor outputs.
Selected Awards
- Health Scholar, Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research, 2007
- New Investigator, Canadian Institutes of Health Research, 2007
Selected Publications
- Selective and quickly reversible inactivation of mammalian neurons in vivo using the Drosophila allatostatin receptor.
- V1 spinal neurons regulate the speed of vertebrate locomotor outputs.
- Cholinergic input is required during embryonic development to mediate proper assembly of spinal locomotor circuits.
- Genetic identification of spinal interneurons that coordinate left-right locomotor activity necessary for walking movements.
