Research
Functionally dissecting Brain Cell Types and Circuits
Cells
We record the electrical activity and image the dendrites of individual neurons to determine the specific way each neuron processes information.
Circuits
We use optogenetics and calcium imaging to define sensory-motor circuits.
Behavior
We stimulate and record neural activity during animal behavior.
Computation
We make simulated neurons to test information processing in cells and circuits.
Projects
Our overall research interests are in the brain circuits that modulate movement and how these circuits degenerate in diseases such as Parkinson's Disease.
How do dendrites integrate information?
We will use two-photon imaging and spatially-specific optogenetic manipulations to test synaptic connections and the integrative properties of dendrites within the basal ganglia nuclei.
How can we slow the progression of Parkinson's Disease?
Neurodegeneration appears to progress from one brain structure to another during the course of the disease. We are investigating the brain circuitry which is altered in the early stages Parkinson's Disease with the aim of finding a way to slow or stop disease progression.
Which neurons promote and inhibit motion?
The pedunculopontine nucleus, a structure that degenerates in Parkinson's Disease, is interconnected with basal ganglia circuitry and contributes to the modulation of movement. We will functionally map the subtypes of neurons within this structure to define motion-promoting and motion-inhibiting circuitry.
How does nicotine alter neural connections?
Although its addictive properties are well known, exposure to nicotine has some surprising additional consequences. Acute nicotine alters sensory gating properties which may affect the symptoms of schizophrenia, while chronic nicotine has protective effects in neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's Disease. We will investigate the effects of both acute and chronic nicotine on sensory gating circuitry and the circuitry which degenerates in Parkinson's Disease.
Presentations
Presentations from Dr. Evans and members of the lab.
Watch Rebekah Evans present her post-doctoral work for the Cure Parkinson's 3P seminar Series.
