The Robert Fitzgerald Laboratory studies cardiopulmonary physiology, especially cardiopulmonary... control. We have focused in particular on the operation of the carotid body and the role of acetylcholine in its functioning. We have also examined the reflex effects of carotid body stimulation in various organs as well as the reflex response of ACTH and adrenal cortical hormones to hypoxic peripheral arterial chemoreceptor stimulation. We are currently interested in the spleen, as it is the only organ other than the lung that demonstrates increased vascular resistance in response to local hypoxia. view more