Andy J. Fischer, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Department of Neuroscience

Degree: University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Postdoctoral Training – University of Washington, Thomas Reh
Training: BSc – University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

MSc – University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Office: Graves Hall 3020

Lab: Graves Hall 3187G

Phone: (614) 292-3524

Fax: (614) 688-8742

Email: fischer.412@osu.edu

Link to NLM PubMed publications list for Andrew J. Fischer (last 10 years)

Research Area:

In general terms, my lab studies neural development, regeneration, and survival. In particular, we are focused on the development, regeneration and survival of cells in the neurosensory tissue of the eye, the retina. We are studying retinal regeneration from neural stem cells and from the major support cells of the retina, the Müller glia. The use of stem cells for neuron replacement and trophic support holds the potential to treat degenerative diseases of the central nervous system. My work has demonstrated that the mature chicken retina contains a zone of neural stem cells at the peripheral edge of the retina that is capable of proliferating and generating neurons at increased rates with the application of growth factors. In addition, I have demonstrated that mature Müller glia in the retina are capable of becoming neuron-producing retinal precursor cells in response to acute damage or growth factors.

Current Research:

Ongoing projects include following: (1) mechanisms that control the proliferation and differentiation of retinal stem cells, (2) mechanisms that regulate the maturation of the support cells of the retina, the Müller glia, (3) mechanisms that cause Müller glia to de-differentiate, proliferate, become retinal stem cells, and produce new neurons, (4) the ability of transplanted neural stem cells to promote the survival of mature retinal neurons, and (5) a novel method using ultrasound to transfer genes into primary neuronal cultures and in the intact retina.

Equipment and Techniques:

My laboratory uses a variety of techniques to study retinal development, regeneration and survival. Collaborations with other laboratories offer additional training opportunities. Current projects include the use of the following devices and techniques: scanning laser confocal microscopy; epifluorecence microscopy; digital image processing and analysis; in situ hybridization; quantitative PCR; ultrasound-mediated gene-transfer; virus-mediated gene transfer; gene silencing using siRNA; immunocytochemistry for peptides, neurotransmitters, receptors, and structural proteins; tissue culture of dissociated cells and explanted neural tissues; and transplantation of neural stem cells into damaged retinas.