Research
Cellular principles underlying learning and cognition
Cellular principles underlying learning and cognition
Our lab focuses on (1) elucidating cellular mechanisms of synaptogenesis in mouse cortex, (2) developing novel technologies that selectively label and control behaviorally-relevant circuits, and (3) dissecting mechanisms of flexible cognitive action controls into cellular level.
Our lab focuses on (1) elucidating cellular mechanisms of synaptogenesis in mouse cortex, (2) developing novel technologies that selectively label and control behaviorally-relevant circuits, and (3) dissecting mechanisms of flexible cognitive action controls into cellular level.
The first project uses fine-scale, optical techniques that create spatiotemporally-controlled patterns of neurotransmitter release in the dendrite, such that local triggering and signaling mechanisms of synapse formation can be studied. We are also investigating novel pathways of neuronal communication in the brain. New tools developed in the second project will allow us to map out the activity profile of individual neurons in behaving animals and test their causal relationship with specific behaviors. Such a tool would dramatically increase our knowledge of the pathways that underlie complex vertebrate behavior. New optogenetic techniques are under developing aiming to target only neurons or subcellular regions that are engaged in specific behaviors or perception. Third project will define organizing principles of cognitive learning at cellular resolution. Various cognitive behaviors related to goal-directed navigation or numerical cognition are being used. Various techniques such as in vivo miniscope imaging, two-photon imaging, fiber-photometry recording, and optogenetic or chemogenetic manipulations are typically used in order to understand brain representation of cognition.
The first project uses fine-scale, optical techniques that create spatiotemporally-controlled patterns of neurotransmitter release in the dendrite, such that local triggering and signaling mechanisms of synapse formation can be studied. We are also investigating novel pathways of neuronal communication in the brain. New tools developed in the second project will allow us to map out the activity profile of individual neurons in behaving animals and test their causal relationship with specific behaviors. Such a tool would dramatically increase our knowledge of the pathways that underlie complex vertebrate behavior. New optogenetic techniques are under developing aiming to target only neurons or subcellular regions that are engaged in specific behaviors or perception. Third project will define organizing principles of cognitive learning at cellular resolution. Various cognitive behaviors related to goal-directed navigation or numerical cognition are being used. Various techniques such as in vivo miniscope imaging, two-photon imaging, fiber-photometry recording, and optogenetic or chemogenetic manipulations are typically used in order to understand brain representation of cognition.
Project 1: Cellular principles underlying synapse formation in developing and mature brain.
Project 1: Cellular principles underlying synapse formation in developing and mature brain.
Project 2: Developing tools that link neural circuits to behaviors.
Project 2: Developing tools that link neural circuits to behaviors.
Project 3: Dissection of flexible cognitive behaviors at cellular resolution.
Project 3: Dissection of flexible cognitive behaviors at cellular resolution.