Laboratory of Cells and Behavior

The Cells and Behavior Laboratory conducts advanced investigations into the endocannabinoid system and behavioral neuroscience.

About us

Welcome to the Cells and Behavior Laboratory, a research group dedicated to advancing our understanding of the brain circuits responsible for complex behavioral processes. Under the leadership of Dr. Edgar Soria-Gómez, our multidisciplinary team of researchers is committed to pushing the boundaries of cognitive and emotional neuroscience. We explore innovative ways to identify cell-type specific mechanisms, investigate the functional interactions of the endocannabinoid system, and harness cutting-edge in vivo techniques to make the physiological basis of memory and emotion clearer than ever before.

In our lab, we believe that deciphering the brain's cellular milieu is the key to treating complex neurological conditions. While current behavioral neuroscience provides a strong foundation for understanding the brain, there is immense potential to refine, extend, and improve our knowledge of how specific cell types interact with peripheral signals. Our research focuses on making the pathophysiology of emotional responses and neurodegenerative diseases more comprehensible and targetable, ensuring that our fundamental discoveries can ultimately be translated into innovative therapeutic approaches.

Decoding Memory and Neurodegenerative Diseases

One of our primary research areas is the pathophysiology of cognitive processes. While basic neural pathways are well-documented, the intricate cell-type-specific mechanisms governing behavior demand much deeper exploration. Through extensive genetic, pharmacological, and in vivo recordings, we study the CB1 control of hippocampal and prefrontal circuits. Our goal is to define the specific cellular mechanisms regulating memory, paving the way for targeted therapeutic approaches that combat neurodegeneration.

Unraveling Emotional States in the Medial Habenula

We also investigate the complex regulation of emotional states, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of how the brain processes and responds to aversive signals. Our studies explore the medial habenula (MHb), a critical interface structure hosting a diverse cellular milieu of tanycyte-like cells, mast cells, astrocytes, and distinct neuronal phenotypes. By prioritizing the functional link between these specific MHb cell types and peripheral signals transported via the neighboring vasculature, we aim to uncover how systemic modulators influence the pathophysiology of emotional responses.

Join Us in Shaping the Future of Behavioral Neuroscience

The Cells and Behavior Laboratory is driven by a vision of continuous scientific discovery. As our understanding of the brain evolves, so too do our research efforts, ensuring that we uncover the intricate cell-type specific mechanisms that dictate cognitive and emotional processes. Whether you are a fellow neuroscientist, a clinician, a prospective student, or an industry partner, our fundamental research is designed to foster a deeper physiological understanding of the brain and inspire the next generation of neurodegenerative therapies.

We deeply value scientific collaboration and knowledge sharing. If you are interested in our research, want to explore academic or institutional partnership opportunities, or are an ambitious student looking to contribute to cutting-edge in vivo experimentation, do not hesitate to reach out. Let’s work together to shape the future of behavioral neuroscience and improve human health.

📩 Contact us at: edgar.soria@achucarro.org

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