Dr. Jortner is interested in the neuropathological effects of toxins, in particular that of organophosphate compounds. Methods of study include light microscopy (with a focus on use of epoxy resin embedded tissue sections to allow high resolution study), morphometrics, electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry.
In collaboration with neurotoxicologist Dr. Marion Ehrich, Dr. Jortner has studied effects of heavy metals, solvents and in particular the delayed neurotoxicity of organophosphates. Their approach to the pathology of these states has employed high resolution light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry (at the light and electron microscopic levels) and morphometry.
Other interests include pathological effects of toxins on tissues besides the nervous system and peripheral nerve pathology.
