My lab investigates neurobiological mechanisms underlying rapid antidepressant effects. We have recently revealed that diverse rapid-acting antidepressants evoke – after the acute pharmacological effects subside – an emergence of slow EEG activity (SWA) and concomitant regulation of plasticity-related molecular pathways (e.g. TrkB neurotrophin receptor) in adult rodents. These findings urge to focus on intrinsic homeostatic adaptations triggered within the brain in response to pharmacological or physiological “challenge” induced by rapid-acting antidepressants.

Our research strategy is based on an integrative approach, where physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms are investigated from the molecular and cellular level to the whole organism. We also aim to bring a strong evolutionary perspective in the study of CNS disorders.