Research

We have various genetically-engineered mouse models to perform electrophysiology, histology, and mouse physiology experiments.

This lab has the following specific research themes in order to understand the neuronal circuits that regulate feeding behavior, metabolism, and blood pressure.

1) Central Serotonin System

- To determine the role of specific signaling molecules in the metabolic effects of serotonin

- To characterize the functional divergence of the central melanocortin system

- To understand the heterogeneous role of serotonin receptors in central neurons

2) Autonomic Neuroscience

- To determine cellular mechanisms for MC4R-mediated activation of sympathetic preganglionic neurons in spinal cord

- To determine the role of ion channels and synaptic transmission in parasympathetic nervous system