Joseph C. Arezzo, Ph.D.

Our laboratory uses a variety of neurophysiologic techniques to explore normal and altered function in animal models and to evaluate safety and efficacy in human clinical trials. Experimental procedures include evoked potentials, ensemble and single unit recording procedures, current source density, whole nerve and spinal conduction velocity and EEG. For the past several decades, we have focused on the timing and spatial distribution of neuroelectric events in the neocortex of behaving monkeys and rodents. Current studies are examining complex auditory processing of components of speech and music in primary auditory cortex. The accurate and sensitive procedures developed for these studies have also been applied to disease models including transgenic and mutant mice, diabetic neuropathy, seizure disorders, neurotoxic insult and iatrogenic deficits of central and peripheral nerve function. In addition, we have participated in the “translation” of basic neuroscience principally to human clinical studies. We are currently participating in the design and conduct of several multicenter Phase 1-4 clinical trials of experimental therapies intended to reduce or prevent diabetic and chemotherapy-induced neuropathies and conditions associated with neuropathic pain.  We are also monitor treatment related CNS effects of compounds targeting HIV infection, depression and ischemia.