Kidney Function in Lizards (Biological Science)

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Current knowledge of the patterns of water and solute regulation in terrestrial vertebrates is based largely on studies of mammals, birds, and amphibians. Studies of reptiles are for the most part limited to turtles and snakes, for which information has only just begun to accumulate, and lizards remain largely unstudied. This research will exploit the ontogenetic variability in osmoregulatory patterns of lizards as the mesonephric kidney ceases to function after birth and the metanephric kidney assumes its adult role in water and ion balance. These investigations are being conducted at several levels: 1) Physiological properties of the whole kidney, as well as of individual nephrons, will be studied with respect to the regulation of filtration and of ion and water balance. 2) The morphological changes that occur in the mesonephric and metanephric kidneys with postnatal development will be documented in terms of both the structural organizations of the tissue and the ultrastructural changes at the cellular level. 3) Information from the physiological and morphological studies will be integrated to yield a picture of the interrelationships between structure and function. This study is the first to examine the osmoregulatory physiology and morphology of a neonatal reptile and in fact represents one of only a very few to study osmoregulation in any newborn vertebrate. The information gained from this study will not only significantly advance our understanding of the patterns of osmoregulation in lizards and other reptiles, but will also provide a basis for understanding the ontogenetic changes in the osmoregulatory roles of the mesonephric and metanephric kidneys both before and after birth in other vertebrates. The interactive activities will involve team-teaching two courses in Physiology as well as presenting research seminars in two departments on campus; and participation in an ongoing seminar on "Women in the Biological Sciences," which centers on gender issues. Dr. Beuchat will also teach a graduate seminar entitled "On Being a Scientist." This seminar will focus on acquisition of information and skills necessary for success in academic science that are not traditionally part of the graduate curriculum. The seminar will include discussions of CV preparation, applying for research grants, giving a talk at a meeting, getting a job in academia, and the ethics of science. This project furthers VPW program objectives which are (1) to provide opportunities for women to advance their careers in engineering and in the disciplines of science supported by NSF and (2) to encourage women to pursue careers in science and engineering by providing greater visibility for women scientists and engineers employed in industry, government, and academic institutions. By encouraging the participation of women in science, it is a valuable investment in the Nation's future scientific vitality.