![Alan Watson](https://profiles-cardiff.imgix.net/attachments/1247?w=200&h=200&auto=format&crop=faces&fit=crop&q=90")
Dr Alan Watson
Reader
- Media commentator
School of Biosciences
Overview
During my academic career, most of my research focused on the circuitry of the invertebrate and vertebrate nervous systems, using electron microscopy and immunocytochemstry to analyse synaptic interactions in the arthropod ventral nerve core and the vertebrate spinal cord (dorsal horn sensory circuitry and descending autonomic pathways controlling the pelvic floor and visceral organs).
My current research is focused on various aspects of musical performance physiology and ergonomics. I run a module for music students at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama where I am an Honorary Fellow. This includes respiratory activity in wind players and singers, ergonomic aspects of brass playing and embouchure muscle activity.
I am also involved in public engagement in science (see Engagement page). My book on The Biology of Musical Performance and Performance Related Injury was published in 2009 and received a Maximising Impact Award from the School in 2010. I have also col-authored a book (The Singer's Guide to the Larynx), with Nicola Harrison.
Roles
Visiting lecturer; Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama
Visiting Lecturer; Visceral Mind Summer School, Bangor University
Visiting Lecturer; University College London (MSc course in Performing Arts Medicine)
Publication
2020
- Wallace, J., Moscardini, L., Rae, A. and Watson, A. 2020. Following the science: a systematic literature review of studies surrounding singing and brass, woodwind and bagpipe playing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Music Education Partnership Group Scotland.
- Watson, A. and Price, K. 2020. Embouchure muscle activity in student and elite trumpeters. Medical Problems of Performing Artists 35(1), pp. 42-53. (10.21091/mppa.2020.1006)
- Harrison, N. and Watson, A. H. 2020. A singer's guide to the larynx. Oxford: Compton Publishing.
2018
- Watson, A. H. 2018. Prevention. In: Winspur, I. ed. The Musician's Hand; A Clinical Guide. London: J.P. Medical, pp. 151-172.
- Watson, A. 2018. Prevention. In: Winspur, I. ed. The Musician's Hand. London: JP Medical, pp. 151-172.
- Price, K. and Watson, A. H. D. 2018. Effect of using ergobrass ergonomic supports on postural muscles in trumpet, trombone, and french horn players. Medical Problems of Performing Artists 33(3), pp. 183. (10.21091/mppa.2018.3026)
- Watson, A. 2018. Embouchure. In: Herbert, T., Myers, A. and Wallace, J. eds. The Cambridge Encyclopedia of Brass Instruments. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, pp. 156-159.
- Watson, A. 2018. Breathing. In: Herbert, T., Myers, A. and Wallace, J. eds. The Cambridge Encyclopedia of Brass Instruments. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, pp. 81-84.
- Watson, A. 2018. Embouchure dystonia. In: Herbert, T., Myers, A. and Wallace, J. eds. The Cambridge Encyclopedia of Brass Instruments. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, pp. 159-161.
2015
- Farruque, S. and Watson, A. H. D. 2015. Developing expertise and professionalism: health and well-being in performing musicians. In: Papageorgi, I. and Welch, G. eds. Advanced Musical Performance: Investigations in Higher Education Learning. SEMPRE Studies in The Psychology of Music Farnham: Ashgate, pp. 319-332.
- Watson, A. H. D. 2015. Breathing in singing. In: Welch, G., Howard, D. M. and Nix, J. eds. The Oxford Handbook of Singing. Oxford: Oxford University Press, (10.1093/oxfordhb/9780199660773.013.10)
2014
- Price, K., Schartz, P. and Watson, A. H. D. 2014. The effect of standing and sitting postures on breathing in brass players. SpringerPlus 3(1), article number: 210. (10.1186/2193-1801-3-210)
2012
- Watson, A. H. D., Wiliams, C. and James, B. V. 2012. Activity patterns in latissimus dorsi and sternocleidomastoid in classical singers. Journal of Voice 26(3), pp. e95-e105. (10.1016/j.jvoice.2011.04.008)
- Ranson, R. N., Connelly, J. H., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 2012. Nuclear expression of PG-21, SRC-1, and pCREB in regions of the lumbosacral spinal cord involved in pelvic innervation in young adult and aged rats. Anatomy Cell Biology 45(4), pp. 241-258. (10.5115/acb.2012.45.4.241)
2011
- Price, K. and Watson, A. H. D. 2011. Postural problems in the left shoulder of an orchestral trombonist. Work 40(3), pp. 317-324.
2009
- Watson, A. H. D. 2009. The biology of musical performance and performance-related injury. Lanham: Scarecrow Press.
2008
- Shaw, H. M., Santer, R. M., Watson, A. H. D. and Benjamin, M. 2008. Could the fat pad of the rat Achilles tendon enthesis organ function as an immune organ?. Journal of Anatomy 212(1), pp. 83. (10.1111/j.1469-7580.2007.831_2.x)
2007
- Ranson, R. N., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 2007. Ageing reduces the number of vesicular glutamate transporter 2 containing immunoreactive inputs to identified rat pelvic motoneurons. Experimental Gerontology 42(6), pp. 506-516. (10.1016/j.exger.2007.01.006)
- Shaw, H., Santer, R. M., Watson, A. H. D. and Benjamin, M. 2007. Adipose tissue at entheses: the innervation and cell composition of the retromalleolar fat pad associated with the rat Achilles tendon. Journal of Anatomy 211(4), pp. 436-443. (10.1111/j.1469-7580.2007.00791.x)
- Ranson, R. N., Dowling, P., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 2007. The effects of ageing on the distribution of vesicular acetylcholine transporter immunoreactive inputs to pelvic motoneurons of male Wistar rats. Neuroscience 144(2), pp. 636-644. (10.1016/j.neuroscience.2006.09.036)
2006
- Shaw, H., Milz, S., Büettner, A., Santer, R. M., Watson, A., Benjamin, M. and Best, T. 2006. The innervation of the enthesis organ of the rat achilles tendon. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise 38(5), pp. S449. (10.1249/00005768-200605001-02760)
- Ranson, R. N., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 2006. The relationship between serotonin, dopamine beta hydroxylase and GABA immunoreactive inputs and spinal preganglionic neurones projecting to the major pelvic ganglion of wistar rats. Neuroscience 141(4), pp. 1935-1949. (10.1016/j.neuroscience.2006.05.015)
- Watson, A. H. D. 2006. What can studying musicians tell us about motor control of the hand?. Journal of Anatomy 208(4), pp. 527-542. (10.1111/j.1469-7580.2006.00545.x)
2005
- Ranson, R. N., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 2005. Biogenic amine and neuropeptide inputs to identified pelvic floor motoneurons that also express SRC-1. Neuroscience Letters 382(3), pp. 248-253. (10.1016/j.neulet.2005.03.040)
- Watson, A. H. D., Le Bon-Jego, M. and Cattaert, D. 2005. Central inhibitory microcircuits controlling spike propagation into sensory terminals. The Journal of Comparative Neurology 484(2), pp. 234-248. (10.1002/cne.20474)
- Ranson, R. N., Priestley, D. J., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 2005. Changes in the substance P-containing innervation of the lumbosacral spinal cord in male Wistar rats as a consequence of ageing. Brain Research 1036(1-2), pp. 139-144. (10.1016/j.brainres.2004.12.031)
2004
- Watson, A. H. D. 2004. Synaptic interactions between the terminals of slow-adapting type II mechanoreceptor afferents and neurones expressing γ-aminobutyric acid- and glycine-like immunoreactivity in the rat spinal cord. The Journal of Comparative Neurology 471(2), pp. 168-179. (10.1002/cne.20043)
2003
- Ranson, R. N., Gaunt, K., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 2003. The effects of ageing and of DSP-4 administration on the micturition characteristics of male Wistar rats. Brain Research 988(1-2), pp. 130-138. (10.1016/S0006-8993(03)03357-2)
- Ranson, R. N., Dodds, A. L., Smith, M. J., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 2003. Age-associated changes in the monoaminergic innervation of rat lumbosacral spinal cord. Brain Research 972(1-2), pp. 149-158. (10.1016/S0006-8993(03)02521-6)
- Watson, A. H. D. 2003. GABA- and glycine-like immunoreactivity in axons and dendrites contacting the central terminals of rapidly adapting glabrous skin afferents in rat spinal cord. The Journal of Comparative Neurology 464(4), pp. 497-510. (10.1002/cne.10812)
- Ranson, R., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 2003. SRC-1 localisation in lumbosacral spinal cord of male and female Wistar rats. NeuroReport 14(14), pp. 1821-1824. (10.1097/00001756-200310060-00012)
2002
- Watson, A. H. D. and Schürmann, F. 2002. Synaptic structure, distribution, and circuitry in the central nervous system of the locust and related insects. Microscopy Research and Technique 56(3), pp. 210-226. (10.1002/jemt.10031)
- Santer, R. M., Dering, M. A., Ranson, R. N., Waboso, H. N. and Watson, A. H. D. 2002. Differential susceptibility to ageing of rat preganglionic neurones projecting to the major pelvic ganglion and of their afferent inputs. Autonomic Neuroscience-Basic & Clinical 96(1), pp. 73-81. (10.1016/S1566-0702(01)00366-6)
- Watson, A. H. D. 2002. Presynaptic modulation of sensory neurons in the segmental ganglia of arthropods. Microscopy Research and Technique 58(4), pp. 262-271. (10.1002/jemt.10135)
- Watson, A. H. D., Hughes, D. I. and Bazzaz, A. A. 2002. Synaptic relationships between hair follicle afferents and neurones expressing GABA and glycine-like immunoreactivity in the spinal cord of the rat. The Journal of Comparative Neurology 452(4), pp. 367-380. (10.1002/cne.10410)
2001
- Watson, A. H. D. and Bazzaz, A. A. 2001. GABA and glycine-like immunoreactivity at axoaxonic synapses on 1a muscle afferent terminals in the spinal cord of the rat. The Journal of Comparative Neurology 433(3), pp. 335-348. (10.1002/cne.1143)
- Heitler, W. J., Watson, A. H. D., Falcolner, S. W. P. and Powell, B. 2001. Differential mRNA localization in astroglial cells in culture. The Journal of Comparative Neurology 430(1), pp. 56-71. (10.1002/1096-9861(20010129)430:1<56::AID-CNE1014>3.0.CO;2-Y)
2000
- Watson, A. H. D., Bevengut, M., Pearlstein, E. and Cattaert, D. 2000. GABA and glutamate-like immunoreactivity at synapses on depressor motorneurones of the leg of the crayfish, Procambarus clarkii. The Journal of Comparative Neurology 422(4), pp. 510-520. (10.1002/1096-9861(20000710)422:4<510::AID-CNE3>3.0.CO;2-O)
1998
- Dering, M. A., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 1998. Age-related changes in the morphology of preganglionic neurons projecting to the paracervical ganglion of nulliparous and multiparous rats. Brain Research 780(2), pp. 245-252. (10.1016/S0006-8993(97)01199-2)
- Pearlstein, E., Watson, A., Bevengut, M. and Cattaert, D. 1998. Inhibitory connections between antagonistic motor neurones of the crayfish walking legs. Journal of Comparative Neurology 399, pp. 241-254. (10.1002/(SICI)1096-9861(19980921)399:2<241::AID-CNE7>3.0.CO;2-0)
1996
- Wallis, D., Watson, A. and Mo, N. 1996. Cardiac neurones of automatic ganglia. Microscopy Research and Technique 35(1), pp. 69-79. (10.1002/(SICI)1097-0029(19960901)35:1<69::AID-JEMT6>3.0.CO;2-N)
- Watson, A., Dering, M. and Santer, R. 1996. Age-related changes in the morphology of preganglionic neurons projecting to the rat hypogastric ganglion. Journal of Neurocytology 25(1), pp. 555-563. (10.1007/BF02284823)
- Watson, A. H. D. and Hardt, M. 1996. Distribution of synapses on two local auditory interneurones, ON1 and ON2, in the prothoracic ganglion of the cricket: relationships with GABA-immunoreactive neurones. Cell and Tissue Research 283(2), pp. 231-246. (10.1007/s004410050534)
1995
- Sandeman, R. E., Watson, A. H. D. and Sandeman, D. C. 1995. Ultrastructure of the synaptic terminals of the dorsal giant serotonin-IR neuron and deutocerebral commissure interneurons in the accessory and olfactory lobes of the crayfish. The Journal of Comparative Neurology 361(4), pp. 617-632. (10.1002/cne.903610406)
- Pfluger, H. and Watson, A. H. D. 1995. GABA and glutamate-like immunoreactivity at synapses received by dorsal unpaired median neurones in the abdominal nerve cord of the locust. Cell and Tissue Research 280(2), pp. 325-333. (10.1007/s004410050360)
1994
- Watson, A. and Hardt, M. 1994. Distribution of synapses on two ascending interneurones carrying frequency-specific information in the auditory system of the cricket: evidence for GABAergic inputs. Journal of Comparative Neurology 345, pp. 481-495.
- Watson, A. H. D. and Pflüger, H. 1994. Distribution of input synapses from processes exhibiting GABA- or glutamate-like immunoreactivity onto terminals of prosternal filiform afferents in the locust. Journal of Comparative Neurology 343(4), pp. 617-629. (10.1002/cne.903430411)
- Mo, N., Wallis, D. and Watson, A. 1994. Properties of putative cardiac and non-cardiac neurones in the rat stellate ganglion. Journal of the Autonomic Nervous System 47(1-2), pp. 7-22. (10.1016/0165-1838(94)90061-2)
1993
- Watson, A. and Seymour-Laurent, K. 1993. The distribution of glutamate-like immunoreactivity in the thoracic and abdominal ganglia of the locust (schistocerca-gregaria). Cell and Tissue Research 273(3), pp. 557-570. (10.1007/BF00333709)
- Watson, A., Burrows, M. and Leitch, B. 1993. GABA-immunoreactivity in processes presynaptic to the terminals of afferents from a locust leg proprioceptor. Journal of Neurocytology 22(7), pp. 547-557. (10.1007/BF01189042)
1992
- Watson, A. H. D. 1992. Presynaptic modulation of sensory afferents in the invertebrate and vertebrate nervous system. Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part A: Physiology 103(2), pp. 227-239. (10.1016/0300-9629(92)90573-9)
- Watson, A. H. D. 1992. The distribution of dopamine-like immunoreactivity in the thoracic and abdominal ganglia of the locust (Schistocerca gregaria). Cell and Tissue Research 270(1), pp. 113-124. (10.1007/BF00381886)
1991
- Watson, A., Storm-Mathisen, J. and Ottersen, O. 1991. GABA and glutamate-like immunoreactivity in processes presynaptic to afferents from hair plates on the proximal joints of the locust leg. Journal of Neurocytology 20(10), pp. 796-809. (10.1007/BF01191731)
- Watson, A., McCabe, B. and Horn, G. 1991. Quantitative analysis of the ultrastructural distribution of GABA-like immunoreactivity in the intermediate and medial part of hyperstriatum ventrale of chick. Journal of Neurocytology 20(2), pp. 145-156. (10.1007/BF01279618)
- Watson, A. H. D. and England, R. C. D. 1991. The distribution of and interactions between GABA-immunoreactive and non-immunoreactive processes presynaptic to afferents from campaniform sensilla on the trochanter of the locust leg. Cell and Tissue Research 266(2), pp. 331-341. (10.1007/BF00318189)
1990
- Watson, A. H. D. and Laurent, G. 1990. GABA-like immunoreactivity in a population of locust intersegmental interneurones and their inputs. The Journal of Comparative Neurology 302(4), pp. 761-767. (10.1002/cne.903020408)
- Sandeman, R. E., Sandeman, D. C. and Watson, A. H. D. 1990. Substance P antibody reveals homologous neurons with axon terminals among somata in the crayfish and crab brain. Journal of Comparative Neurology 294(4), pp. 569-582. (10.1002/cne.902940405)
- Watson, A. 1990. Ultrastructural evidence for GABAergic input onto cercal afferents in the locust (Locusta-Migratoria). Journal of Experimental Biology 148, pp. 509-515.
1989
- Burrows, M., Watson, A. and Brunn, D. 1989. Physiological and ultrastructural characterization of a central synaptic connection between identified motor neurons in the locust. European Journal of Neuroscience 1(2), pp. 111-126. (10.1111/j.1460-9568.1989.tb00778.x)
- Watson, A. and Pflüger, H. 1989. Regional specialisation for synaptic input and output on a locust intersegmental interneurone with multiple spike-initiating zones. Journal of Comparative Neurology 279(4), pp. 515-527. (10.1002/cne.902790402)
1988
- Watson, A. 1988. Antibodies against GABA and glutamate label neurons with morphologically distinct synaptic vesicles in the locust central nervous system. Neuroscience 26(1), pp. 33-44. (10.1016/0306-4522(88)90125-X)
- Watson, A. and Burrows, M. 1988. Distribution and morphology of synapses on nonspiking local interneurones in the thoracic nervous system of the locust. Journal of Comparative Neurology 272(4), pp. 605-616. (10.1002/cne.902720411)
- Pflüger, H. and Watson, A. 1988. Structure and distribution of dorsal unpaired median (DUM) neurones in the abdominal nerve cord of male and female locusts. Journal of Comparative Neurology 268(3), pp. 329-345. (10.1002/cne.902680304)
1987
- Watson, A. and Burrows, M. 1987. Immunocytochemical and pharmacological evidence for GABAergic spiking local interneurons in the locust. Journal of Neuroscience 7(6), pp. 1741-1751. (10.1523/JNEUROSCI.07-06-01741.1987)
- Watson, A. H. D. and Pfluger, H. 1987. The distribution of GABA-like immunoreactivity in relation to ganglion structure in the abdominal nerve cord of the locust (Schistocerca gregaria). Cell and Tissue Research 249(2), pp. 391-402. (10.1007/BF00215523)
1986
- Watson, A. H. D. 1986. The distribution of GABA-like immunoreactivity in the thoracic nervous system of the locust Schistocerca gregaria. Cell and Tissue Research 246(2), pp. 331-341. (10.1007/BF00215895)
1985
- Watson, A. H. D., Burrows, M. and Hale, J. P. 1985. The morphology and ultrastructure of common inhibitory motor neurones in the thorax of the locust. Journal of Comparative Neurology 239(3), pp. 341-359. (10.1002/cne.902390307)
- Watson, A. 1985. The synaptic basis for the integration of local reflexes in the locust. In: Feedback and Motor Control in Invertebrates and Vertebrates. Springer, pp. 231-250., (10.1007%2F978-94-011-7084-0_15)
1984
- Watson, A. H. D. and Pflüger, H. -. 1984. The ultrastructure of prosternal sensory hair afferents within the locust central nervous system. Neuroscience 11(1), pp. 269-279. (10.1016/0306-4522(84)90230-6)
1983
- Watson, A. H. D. and Burrows, M. 1983. The morphology, ultrastructure, and distribution of synapses on an intersegmental interneurone of the locust. Journal of Comparative Neurology 214(2), pp. 154-169. (10.1002/cne.902140205)
1982
- Watson, A. H. D. and Burrows, M. 1982. The ultrastructure of identified locust motor neurones and their synaptic relationships. Journal of Comparative Neurology 205(4), pp. 383-397. (10.1002/cne.902050407)
1981
- Watson, A. and Burrows, M. 1981. Input and output synapses on identified motor neurones of a locust revealed by the intracellular injection of horseradish peroxidase. Cell and Tissue Research 215(2), pp. 325-332. (10.1007/BF00239118)
- Watson, A. 1981. The ultrastructure of the innervation of the intestinal wall in the teleosts Myoxocephalus scorpius and Pleuronectes platessa. Cell and Tissue Research 214(3), pp. 651-658. (10.1007/BF00233504)
1980
- Watson, A. 1980. The structure of the coeliac ganglion of a teleost fish Myoxocephalus scorpius. Cell and Tissue Research 210(1), pp. 155-165. (10.1007/BF00232151)
- Watson, A. 1980. The distribution of aminergic neurones and their projections in the brain of the teleost, Myoxocephalus scorpius. Cell and Tissue Research 208(2), pp. 299-312. (10.1007/BF00234878)
- Watson, A. 1980. The structure of the coeliac ganglion of a telost fish Myoxocephalus Scorpius. Cell and Tissue Research 210, pp. 155-165. (10.1007/BF00232151.pdf)
1979
- Watson, A. 1979. Fluorescent histochemistry of the teleost gut: evidence for the presence of serotonergic neurones. Cell and Tissue Research 197(1), pp. 155-164. (10.1007/BF00233560)
- Watson, A. and Cobb, J. 1979. A comparative study on the innervation and the vascularization of the bulbus arteriosus in teleost fish. Cell and Tissue Research 196(2), pp. 337-346. (10.1007/BF00240106)
Articles
- Watson, A. and Price, K. 2020. Embouchure muscle activity in student and elite trumpeters. Medical Problems of Performing Artists 35(1), pp. 42-53. (10.21091/mppa.2020.1006)
- Price, K. and Watson, A. H. D. 2018. Effect of using ergobrass ergonomic supports on postural muscles in trumpet, trombone, and french horn players. Medical Problems of Performing Artists 33(3), pp. 183. (10.21091/mppa.2018.3026)
- Price, K., Schartz, P. and Watson, A. H. D. 2014. The effect of standing and sitting postures on breathing in brass players. SpringerPlus 3(1), article number: 210. (10.1186/2193-1801-3-210)
- Watson, A. H. D., Wiliams, C. and James, B. V. 2012. Activity patterns in latissimus dorsi and sternocleidomastoid in classical singers. Journal of Voice 26(3), pp. e95-e105. (10.1016/j.jvoice.2011.04.008)
- Ranson, R. N., Connelly, J. H., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 2012. Nuclear expression of PG-21, SRC-1, and pCREB in regions of the lumbosacral spinal cord involved in pelvic innervation in young adult and aged rats. Anatomy Cell Biology 45(4), pp. 241-258. (10.5115/acb.2012.45.4.241)
- Price, K. and Watson, A. H. D. 2011. Postural problems in the left shoulder of an orchestral trombonist. Work 40(3), pp. 317-324.
- Shaw, H. M., Santer, R. M., Watson, A. H. D. and Benjamin, M. 2008. Could the fat pad of the rat Achilles tendon enthesis organ function as an immune organ?. Journal of Anatomy 212(1), pp. 83. (10.1111/j.1469-7580.2007.831_2.x)
- Ranson, R. N., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 2007. Ageing reduces the number of vesicular glutamate transporter 2 containing immunoreactive inputs to identified rat pelvic motoneurons. Experimental Gerontology 42(6), pp. 506-516. (10.1016/j.exger.2007.01.006)
- Shaw, H., Santer, R. M., Watson, A. H. D. and Benjamin, M. 2007. Adipose tissue at entheses: the innervation and cell composition of the retromalleolar fat pad associated with the rat Achilles tendon. Journal of Anatomy 211(4), pp. 436-443. (10.1111/j.1469-7580.2007.00791.x)
- Ranson, R. N., Dowling, P., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 2007. The effects of ageing on the distribution of vesicular acetylcholine transporter immunoreactive inputs to pelvic motoneurons of male Wistar rats. Neuroscience 144(2), pp. 636-644. (10.1016/j.neuroscience.2006.09.036)
- Shaw, H., Milz, S., Büettner, A., Santer, R. M., Watson, A., Benjamin, M. and Best, T. 2006. The innervation of the enthesis organ of the rat achilles tendon. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise 38(5), pp. S449. (10.1249/00005768-200605001-02760)
- Ranson, R. N., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 2006. The relationship between serotonin, dopamine beta hydroxylase and GABA immunoreactive inputs and spinal preganglionic neurones projecting to the major pelvic ganglion of wistar rats. Neuroscience 141(4), pp. 1935-1949. (10.1016/j.neuroscience.2006.05.015)
- Watson, A. H. D. 2006. What can studying musicians tell us about motor control of the hand?. Journal of Anatomy 208(4), pp. 527-542. (10.1111/j.1469-7580.2006.00545.x)
- Ranson, R. N., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 2005. Biogenic amine and neuropeptide inputs to identified pelvic floor motoneurons that also express SRC-1. Neuroscience Letters 382(3), pp. 248-253. (10.1016/j.neulet.2005.03.040)
- Watson, A. H. D., Le Bon-Jego, M. and Cattaert, D. 2005. Central inhibitory microcircuits controlling spike propagation into sensory terminals. The Journal of Comparative Neurology 484(2), pp. 234-248. (10.1002/cne.20474)
- Ranson, R. N., Priestley, D. J., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 2005. Changes in the substance P-containing innervation of the lumbosacral spinal cord in male Wistar rats as a consequence of ageing. Brain Research 1036(1-2), pp. 139-144. (10.1016/j.brainres.2004.12.031)
- Watson, A. H. D. 2004. Synaptic interactions between the terminals of slow-adapting type II mechanoreceptor afferents and neurones expressing γ-aminobutyric acid- and glycine-like immunoreactivity in the rat spinal cord. The Journal of Comparative Neurology 471(2), pp. 168-179. (10.1002/cne.20043)
- Ranson, R. N., Gaunt, K., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 2003. The effects of ageing and of DSP-4 administration on the micturition characteristics of male Wistar rats. Brain Research 988(1-2), pp. 130-138. (10.1016/S0006-8993(03)03357-2)
- Ranson, R. N., Dodds, A. L., Smith, M. J., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 2003. Age-associated changes in the monoaminergic innervation of rat lumbosacral spinal cord. Brain Research 972(1-2), pp. 149-158. (10.1016/S0006-8993(03)02521-6)
- Watson, A. H. D. 2003. GABA- and glycine-like immunoreactivity in axons and dendrites contacting the central terminals of rapidly adapting glabrous skin afferents in rat spinal cord. The Journal of Comparative Neurology 464(4), pp. 497-510. (10.1002/cne.10812)
- Ranson, R., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 2003. SRC-1 localisation in lumbosacral spinal cord of male and female Wistar rats. NeuroReport 14(14), pp. 1821-1824. (10.1097/00001756-200310060-00012)
- Watson, A. H. D. and Schürmann, F. 2002. Synaptic structure, distribution, and circuitry in the central nervous system of the locust and related insects. Microscopy Research and Technique 56(3), pp. 210-226. (10.1002/jemt.10031)
- Santer, R. M., Dering, M. A., Ranson, R. N., Waboso, H. N. and Watson, A. H. D. 2002. Differential susceptibility to ageing of rat preganglionic neurones projecting to the major pelvic ganglion and of their afferent inputs. Autonomic Neuroscience-Basic & Clinical 96(1), pp. 73-81. (10.1016/S1566-0702(01)00366-6)
- Watson, A. H. D. 2002. Presynaptic modulation of sensory neurons in the segmental ganglia of arthropods. Microscopy Research and Technique 58(4), pp. 262-271. (10.1002/jemt.10135)
- Watson, A. H. D., Hughes, D. I. and Bazzaz, A. A. 2002. Synaptic relationships between hair follicle afferents and neurones expressing GABA and glycine-like immunoreactivity in the spinal cord of the rat. The Journal of Comparative Neurology 452(4), pp. 367-380. (10.1002/cne.10410)
- Watson, A. H. D. and Bazzaz, A. A. 2001. GABA and glycine-like immunoreactivity at axoaxonic synapses on 1a muscle afferent terminals in the spinal cord of the rat. The Journal of Comparative Neurology 433(3), pp. 335-348. (10.1002/cne.1143)
- Heitler, W. J., Watson, A. H. D., Falcolner, S. W. P. and Powell, B. 2001. Differential mRNA localization in astroglial cells in culture. The Journal of Comparative Neurology 430(1), pp. 56-71. (10.1002/1096-9861(20010129)430:1<56::AID-CNE1014>3.0.CO;2-Y)
- Watson, A. H. D., Bevengut, M., Pearlstein, E. and Cattaert, D. 2000. GABA and glutamate-like immunoreactivity at synapses on depressor motorneurones of the leg of the crayfish, Procambarus clarkii. The Journal of Comparative Neurology 422(4), pp. 510-520. (10.1002/1096-9861(20000710)422:4<510::AID-CNE3>3.0.CO;2-O)
- Dering, M. A., Santer, R. M. and Watson, A. H. D. 1998. Age-related changes in the morphology of preganglionic neurons projecting to the paracervical ganglion of nulliparous and multiparous rats. Brain Research 780(2), pp. 245-252. (10.1016/S0006-8993(97)01199-2)
- Pearlstein, E., Watson, A., Bevengut, M. and Cattaert, D. 1998. Inhibitory connections between antagonistic motor neurones of the crayfish walking legs. Journal of Comparative Neurology 399, pp. 241-254. (10.1002/(SICI)1096-9861(19980921)399:2<241::AID-CNE7>3.0.CO;2-0)
- Wallis, D., Watson, A. and Mo, N. 1996. Cardiac neurones of automatic ganglia. Microscopy Research and Technique 35(1), pp. 69-79. (10.1002/(SICI)1097-0029(19960901)35:1<69::AID-JEMT6>3.0.CO;2-N)
- Watson, A., Dering, M. and Santer, R. 1996. Age-related changes in the morphology of preganglionic neurons projecting to the rat hypogastric ganglion. Journal of Neurocytology 25(1), pp. 555-563. (10.1007/BF02284823)
- Watson, A. H. D. and Hardt, M. 1996. Distribution of synapses on two local auditory interneurones, ON1 and ON2, in the prothoracic ganglion of the cricket: relationships with GABA-immunoreactive neurones. Cell and Tissue Research 283(2), pp. 231-246. (10.1007/s004410050534)
- Sandeman, R. E., Watson, A. H. D. and Sandeman, D. C. 1995. Ultrastructure of the synaptic terminals of the dorsal giant serotonin-IR neuron and deutocerebral commissure interneurons in the accessory and olfactory lobes of the crayfish. The Journal of Comparative Neurology 361(4), pp. 617-632. (10.1002/cne.903610406)
- Pfluger, H. and Watson, A. H. D. 1995. GABA and glutamate-like immunoreactivity at synapses received by dorsal unpaired median neurones in the abdominal nerve cord of the locust. Cell and Tissue Research 280(2), pp. 325-333. (10.1007/s004410050360)
- Watson, A. and Hardt, M. 1994. Distribution of synapses on two ascending interneurones carrying frequency-specific information in the auditory system of the cricket: evidence for GABAergic inputs. Journal of Comparative Neurology 345, pp. 481-495.
- Watson, A. H. D. and Pflüger, H. 1994. Distribution of input synapses from processes exhibiting GABA- or glutamate-like immunoreactivity onto terminals of prosternal filiform afferents in the locust. Journal of Comparative Neurology 343(4), pp. 617-629. (10.1002/cne.903430411)
- Mo, N., Wallis, D. and Watson, A. 1994. Properties of putative cardiac and non-cardiac neurones in the rat stellate ganglion. Journal of the Autonomic Nervous System 47(1-2), pp. 7-22. (10.1016/0165-1838(94)90061-2)
- Watson, A. and Seymour-Laurent, K. 1993. The distribution of glutamate-like immunoreactivity in the thoracic and abdominal ganglia of the locust (schistocerca-gregaria). Cell and Tissue Research 273(3), pp. 557-570. (10.1007/BF00333709)
- Watson, A., Burrows, M. and Leitch, B. 1993. GABA-immunoreactivity in processes presynaptic to the terminals of afferents from a locust leg proprioceptor. Journal of Neurocytology 22(7), pp. 547-557. (10.1007/BF01189042)
- Watson, A. H. D. 1992. Presynaptic modulation of sensory afferents in the invertebrate and vertebrate nervous system. Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part A: Physiology 103(2), pp. 227-239. (10.1016/0300-9629(92)90573-9)
- Watson, A. H. D. 1992. The distribution of dopamine-like immunoreactivity in the thoracic and abdominal ganglia of the locust (Schistocerca gregaria). Cell and Tissue Research 270(1), pp. 113-124. (10.1007/BF00381886)
- Watson, A., Storm-Mathisen, J. and Ottersen, O. 1991. GABA and glutamate-like immunoreactivity in processes presynaptic to afferents from hair plates on the proximal joints of the locust leg. Journal of Neurocytology 20(10), pp. 796-809. (10.1007/BF01191731)
- Watson, A., McCabe, B. and Horn, G. 1991. Quantitative analysis of the ultrastructural distribution of GABA-like immunoreactivity in the intermediate and medial part of hyperstriatum ventrale of chick. Journal of Neurocytology 20(2), pp. 145-156. (10.1007/BF01279618)
- Watson, A. H. D. and England, R. C. D. 1991. The distribution of and interactions between GABA-immunoreactive and non-immunoreactive processes presynaptic to afferents from campaniform sensilla on the trochanter of the locust leg. Cell and Tissue Research 266(2), pp. 331-341. (10.1007/BF00318189)
- Watson, A. H. D. and Laurent, G. 1990. GABA-like immunoreactivity in a population of locust intersegmental interneurones and their inputs. The Journal of Comparative Neurology 302(4), pp. 761-767. (10.1002/cne.903020408)
- Sandeman, R. E., Sandeman, D. C. and Watson, A. H. D. 1990. Substance P antibody reveals homologous neurons with axon terminals among somata in the crayfish and crab brain. Journal of Comparative Neurology 294(4), pp. 569-582. (10.1002/cne.902940405)
- Watson, A. 1990. Ultrastructural evidence for GABAergic input onto cercal afferents in the locust (Locusta-Migratoria). Journal of Experimental Biology 148, pp. 509-515.
- Burrows, M., Watson, A. and Brunn, D. 1989. Physiological and ultrastructural characterization of a central synaptic connection between identified motor neurons in the locust. European Journal of Neuroscience 1(2), pp. 111-126. (10.1111/j.1460-9568.1989.tb00778.x)
- Watson, A. and Pflüger, H. 1989. Regional specialisation for synaptic input and output on a locust intersegmental interneurone with multiple spike-initiating zones. Journal of Comparative Neurology 279(4), pp. 515-527. (10.1002/cne.902790402)
- Watson, A. 1988. Antibodies against GABA and glutamate label neurons with morphologically distinct synaptic vesicles in the locust central nervous system. Neuroscience 26(1), pp. 33-44. (10.1016/0306-4522(88)90125-X)
- Watson, A. and Burrows, M. 1988. Distribution and morphology of synapses on nonspiking local interneurones in the thoracic nervous system of the locust. Journal of Comparative Neurology 272(4), pp. 605-616. (10.1002/cne.902720411)
- Pflüger, H. and Watson, A. 1988. Structure and distribution of dorsal unpaired median (DUM) neurones in the abdominal nerve cord of male and female locusts. Journal of Comparative Neurology 268(3), pp. 329-345. (10.1002/cne.902680304)
- Watson, A. and Burrows, M. 1987. Immunocytochemical and pharmacological evidence for GABAergic spiking local interneurons in the locust. Journal of Neuroscience 7(6), pp. 1741-1751. (10.1523/JNEUROSCI.07-06-01741.1987)
- Watson, A. H. D. and Pfluger, H. 1987. The distribution of GABA-like immunoreactivity in relation to ganglion structure in the abdominal nerve cord of the locust (Schistocerca gregaria). Cell and Tissue Research 249(2), pp. 391-402. (10.1007/BF00215523)
- Watson, A. H. D. 1986. The distribution of GABA-like immunoreactivity in the thoracic nervous system of the locust Schistocerca gregaria. Cell and Tissue Research 246(2), pp. 331-341. (10.1007/BF00215895)
- Watson, A. H. D., Burrows, M. and Hale, J. P. 1985. The morphology and ultrastructure of common inhibitory motor neurones in the thorax of the locust. Journal of Comparative Neurology 239(3), pp. 341-359. (10.1002/cne.902390307)
- Watson, A. H. D. and Pflüger, H. -. 1984. The ultrastructure of prosternal sensory hair afferents within the locust central nervous system. Neuroscience 11(1), pp. 269-279. (10.1016/0306-4522(84)90230-6)
- Watson, A. H. D. and Burrows, M. 1983. The morphology, ultrastructure, and distribution of synapses on an intersegmental interneurone of the locust. Journal of Comparative Neurology 214(2), pp. 154-169. (10.1002/cne.902140205)
- Watson, A. H. D. and Burrows, M. 1982. The ultrastructure of identified locust motor neurones and their synaptic relationships. Journal of Comparative Neurology 205(4), pp. 383-397. (10.1002/cne.902050407)
- Watson, A. and Burrows, M. 1981. Input and output synapses on identified motor neurones of a locust revealed by the intracellular injection of horseradish peroxidase. Cell and Tissue Research 215(2), pp. 325-332. (10.1007/BF00239118)
- Watson, A. 1981. The ultrastructure of the innervation of the intestinal wall in the teleosts Myoxocephalus scorpius and Pleuronectes platessa. Cell and Tissue Research 214(3), pp. 651-658. (10.1007/BF00233504)
- Watson, A. 1980. The structure of the coeliac ganglion of a teleost fish Myoxocephalus scorpius. Cell and Tissue Research 210(1), pp. 155-165. (10.1007/BF00232151)
- Watson, A. 1980. The distribution of aminergic neurones and their projections in the brain of the teleost, Myoxocephalus scorpius. Cell and Tissue Research 208(2), pp. 299-312. (10.1007/BF00234878)
- Watson, A. 1980. The structure of the coeliac ganglion of a telost fish Myoxocephalus Scorpius. Cell and Tissue Research 210, pp. 155-165. (10.1007/BF00232151.pdf)
- Watson, A. 1979. Fluorescent histochemistry of the teleost gut: evidence for the presence of serotonergic neurones. Cell and Tissue Research 197(1), pp. 155-164. (10.1007/BF00233560)
- Watson, A. and Cobb, J. 1979. A comparative study on the innervation and the vascularization of the bulbus arteriosus in teleost fish. Cell and Tissue Research 196(2), pp. 337-346. (10.1007/BF00240106)
Book sections
- Watson, A. H. 2018. Prevention. In: Winspur, I. ed. The Musician's Hand; A Clinical Guide. London: J.P. Medical, pp. 151-172.
- Watson, A. 2018. Prevention. In: Winspur, I. ed. The Musician's Hand. London: JP Medical, pp. 151-172.
- Watson, A. 2018. Embouchure. In: Herbert, T., Myers, A. and Wallace, J. eds. The Cambridge Encyclopedia of Brass Instruments. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, pp. 156-159.
- Watson, A. 2018. Breathing. In: Herbert, T., Myers, A. and Wallace, J. eds. The Cambridge Encyclopedia of Brass Instruments. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, pp. 81-84.
- Watson, A. 2018. Embouchure dystonia. In: Herbert, T., Myers, A. and Wallace, J. eds. The Cambridge Encyclopedia of Brass Instruments. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, pp. 159-161.
- Farruque, S. and Watson, A. H. D. 2015. Developing expertise and professionalism: health and well-being in performing musicians. In: Papageorgi, I. and Welch, G. eds. Advanced Musical Performance: Investigations in Higher Education Learning. SEMPRE Studies in The Psychology of Music Farnham: Ashgate, pp. 319-332.
- Watson, A. H. D. 2015. Breathing in singing. In: Welch, G., Howard, D. M. and Nix, J. eds. The Oxford Handbook of Singing. Oxford: Oxford University Press, (10.1093/oxfordhb/9780199660773.013.10)
- Watson, A. 1985. The synaptic basis for the integration of local reflexes in the locust. In: Feedback and Motor Control in Invertebrates and Vertebrates. Springer, pp. 231-250., (10.1007%2F978-94-011-7084-0_15)
Books
- Harrison, N. and Watson, A. H. 2020. A singer's guide to the larynx. Oxford: Compton Publishing.
- Watson, A. H. D. 2009. The biology of musical performance and performance-related injury. Lanham: Scarecrow Press.
Monographs
- Wallace, J., Moscardini, L., Rae, A. and Watson, A. 2020. Following the science: a systematic literature review of studies surrounding singing and brass, woodwind and bagpipe playing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Music Education Partnership Group Scotland.
Research
Projects
Previous research. My previous research focused on synaptic distribution on physiologically identified neurones of different types in the vertebrate and invertebrate nervous system. This dealt particularly with the connections underpinning presynaptic inhibition. I was also involved in studies of aging in spinal autonomic circuitry.
Current research. I collaborate with Kevin Price (Head of Brass) and Buddug Verona James (Vocal Performance Dept.) at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama and Nicola Harrison (Pembroke College, Oxford) on research projects on respiration in wind players and singers, and instrumental ergonomics dealing with posture and embouchure muscle activity. These allow science and music students to work together to study physiology in a vocational context
Current co-workers and collaborators
- Kevin Price, Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama
- Buddug James, RWCMD
- Nicola Harrison, Pembroke College, Oxford
.
Teaching
Prior to my retirement I was involved in Medical and Dental teaching; mainly Human Anatomy, Neuroscience. I was also involved in Science teaching; Neuroanatomy, auditory physiology, invertebrate neuroscience, central auditory processing, neuroscience of language.
I currently teach human neuroanatomy on the Visceral Mind summer school at Bangor University.
I also run a module for music students at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama on performance physiology and injury prevention.
Biography
After completing a degree in Zoology at Edinburgh University, I carried out my PhD on biogenic amine containing neurons of the teleost brain and autonomic innervation of the visceral organs, at the Gatty Marine lab of St. Andrews University. I then spent 9 years at Cambridge University with Malcolm Burrows, investigating the nature and distribution of synapses on identified neurones in the locust central nervous system. During this period I held a Beit Memorial Fellowship. I was appointed to a lectureship in Anatomy in Cardiff in1989.
Honours and awards
Honorary Fellow of the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama
Contact Details
WatsonA@cardiff.ac.uk
Sir Martin Evans Building, Room Cardiff School of Biosciences, The Sir Martin Evans Building, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX
Sir Martin Evans Building, Room Cardiff School of Biosciences, The Sir Martin Evans Building, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX
Research themes
Specialisms
- Medical physiology
- Music education
- Health promotion
- Music performance
- Neurosciences