Omowumi Femi-Akinlosotu

Biography

A dentist and neurobiologist interested in craniometry, dental anatomy, forensic anatomy and dental education.
My research interest in Anatomy has special focus on Dental Anatomy and Neurobiology with emphasis on neuronal networks in pathologic states. My full interest in neurobiology started with my PhD thesis titled, “Histomorphometric changes in the laminar architecture and pyramidal neurons of the sensorimotor cortex in neonatal hydrocephalic mice” with significant contributions stating the effects of hydrocephalus on the pyramidal neurons of the sensorimotor cortical area of neonatal mice brains. The behavioural and morphological alterations associated with the disease state as well as the temporal changes associated with kaolin-induced hydrocephalus using basic and specialized histological techniques were highlighted. The results have been disseminated in several workshops, seminars, conferences as well as peer reviewed publications in local and international fora.
I have progressed with studies on hydrocephalic states in rodents focusing on the neuronal networks in the sensorimotor and visual cortices, hippocampus and cerebellum. In my research on hydrocephalus, I have investigated the effects of the former on the dendritic arborizations of neurons of the sensorimotor and visual cortices, hippocampus as well as the cerebellum and correlated my findings with behavioural patterns such as locomotor activities, learning and memory using relevant neurobehavioural techniques. Hydrocephalus being a common neurological disease among children still does not have a satisfactory cure. In line with this, I have been studying the possible ameliorative effect of vanadium (ubiquitous trace element found in foods and beverages) on learning and memory disabilities associated with hydrocephalus.
With my degree in Dentistry, I have been able to channel my research acumen towards dental anatomy and craniometry in different animal species. Therefore, I have collaborated with colleagues and published articles on the dental abnormalities in rodents, cattles, camels, bats, duikers and pigs. Using both my clinical and basic anatomy skills, I have related my findings to applied anatomy and generated data which are relevant in head and neck surgical manipulations and maneuvers. I have tried to merge my dentistry background with neuroscience by observing the neurotoxic effects of fluoride.
I have collaborated with colleagues and published articles on effects of nicotine and caffeine on different parts of the brain using rodent as models. Further investigations are ongoing in all the former and later areas.
My research focus has generally contributed to the generation of data geared towards the possible management of hydrocephalus as well as insight into the basic anatomy of neuronal networks and more insight into the dental profiles of some animal species.