Thanks!

Axon regeneration sounds interesting, I only know a small bit about that; if I'm remembering correctly, axons regenerate more easily in the PNS compared to the CNS. In the CNS scar tissue generally hinders the regeneration? And this is somewhat due to the neurons themselves, but also has to do with the environment they are operating in (ie. take a PNS neuron and put in in CNS conditions and it will regenerate more like a CNS neuron). That's my recollection without breaking out my cellular neuro book. Why are you using an optic nerve as a model, is it particularly suited for the research somehow?

Psychedelic research is really interesting. I hope after some marijuana legalization in the U.S. that there is a subsequent movement for psychedelic usage in the medical field (and, eventually, some decriminalization of psychedelics for recreational use as well). MAPS is a very promising program, but rather limited by funding right now [ http://www.maps.org/ ] .

I'm currently picking up some clinic hours and a few classes at a community college before I apply for a Physician's Assistant program. I've been encouraged a few times to try for an MD/PhD program, but I'm afraid I don't have the wherewithal for another 6+ years of school and training to become a doctor. And in a research aspect, while I found lab work interesting and generally rewarding, it is very draining. Thus far, I expect clinical work to be more my speed, and a PA program will have me in the workforce in ~3 years from today.