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Neural Circuits & Behavioral Control

We aim to understand the neural circuits that underlie motivated behaviors and behavioral control. We use molecular and genetic tools to visualize, manipulate, or control discrete neural circuit elements so that we may better define their roles in physiology, behavior & disease.

We focus on glutamate and dopamine neurotransmission and co-transmission in midbrain and basal ganglia circuits of particular importance to neuropsychiatric illness, including drug addiction and Parkinson’s disease.

See our Accomplishments
VTA triple transporter labeling

Techniques & Approaches

  • Genetically modified mice and viral vectors
  • Optogenetics
  • Chemogenetics
  • Behavioral assays
  • Patch-clamp electrophysiology
  • Fiber photometry
  • Immunohistochemistry & microscopy

Read Our Publications