Circuit Structure
We are exploring the circuit motifs that underlie odor processing. We use a combination of optogenetics, electrical stimulation and multi-electrode patch clamp techniques, and histology to map circuit connectivity within olfactory system.
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Circuits & Synapses
We are currently focusing on inhibition mediated by different classes of interneurons that express parvalbumin (PV), somatostatin (Sst) or vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). In particular, we are interested in how inhibitory circuits regulate excitatory synaptic plasticity as well as neural activity during olfactory tasks. We are also currently investigating how inhibitory synaptic plasticity contributes to the formation of odor representations.
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Circuits & Behavior
We are investigating the relationship between changes in synaptic strength and neural activity during and following odor learning. We are particularly interested in how excitatory and inhibitory circuits interact to build assemblies that underlie olfactory representations and ultimately odor guided behavior. We are also interested in how task demands and reward shape odor representations.
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