A common theme of these studies is mechanisms of adaptation to hypoxia. I prefer an integrative and interdisciplinary approach to research problems. This research is aimed at characterizing the mechanisms and functional significance of lowered body temperature of hypoxic animals. The kinds of animals studied depend on the questions being asked and have ranged from protozoans to humans. A major focus of this research is on the mechanisms controlling behavioral and physiological temperature regulation in hypoxic animals.
Hypoxia causes hypothermia in most mammals via increased heat loss.
By seeking a cooler environment, as the frog below is doing, animals reduce their need for oxygen and alleviate hypoxic stress. Potential neuromodulators of hypothermia, e.g., lactate, adenosine, and arginine vasopressin are being explored. This research will also determine if hypothermia has a protective effect on brain function. The physiological significance of behavioral hypothermia is being studied with respect to metabolic rate, ventilation, lactate production, hemoconcentration, arterial saturation, and survival. Behavioral responses to hypoxia are studied in various species of ectothermic animals, including amphibians.