Autor: Allison B. Coffin

Dr. Coffin’s research interests encompass both basic and applied work in auditory neuroscience, from neuroethology research on hearing in fishes to biomedical work on hearing loss and prevention. Her recent research includes work on environmental effects on sensory cell development and plasticity, particularly the role of environmental toxins and how these influence the auditory system. Dr. Cramer’s research addresses the development and plasticity of central auditory pathways in the brainstem. She has identified mechanisms by which families of molecules shape auditory circuitry during normal development and during injury-induced reorganization of neural circuits. She is currently studying the role of glial cells in auditory circuit maturation and has begun to explore auditory function in animal models of autism. Together they bring to the volume unique scientific expertise on auditory development and plasticity and they will ensure the timely progression of the editorial process.