Experimental Approaches
Acute brain slice electrophysiology
We make whole-cell patch-clamp recordings from living neurons in slices of living brain tissue. This approach is the best way to investigate the electrical properties of neurons and their synaptic connections. Using pharmacological agents we investigate how neurotransmitters and their receptors transform neural signals.
Viral tracing
Adenoassociated viruses (AAVs) can be used to make specific neurons express a variety of proteins throughout their length, from dendrite tip to axon tip. This approach allows us to address where neurons send their fibers and thus, their electrical signals. Our lab pushes the boundaries of how viruses can be used as tools to trace neural circuits, experimenting with viruses that can jump to presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons.
Optogenetics
Expressing the light-gated ion channel channelrhodopsin in neurons allows us to control their activity with light. We use this approach to identify the connectivity and synaptic function of specific populations of neurons.
In vivo electrophysiology
We can record the activity of neurons in the intact brain to explore how they respond to real-world stimuli, such as sounds. By combining this approach with optogenetics we can control the activity of populations of neurons and address their function in hearing and balance.