Basal ganglia

The complexity of the neuronal connections is formed during development under the guidance of both genetic and environmental factors. The interplay between genetic blueprint and neuronal activity results in formation of synaptic connections pattern, unique for each individual. Genetic or environmental alterations in this process may push developing network towards pathological attractor state, leading to progression of a neurodevelopmental disorder.

My laboratory is primarily interested in recording and manipulating neural circuits involved in organisms’ ability to adapt to an unpredictable environment. We focus on interactions between cognitive circuits (anterior cingulate cortex, ACC) and action selection and control circuits (motor cortex, basal ganglia), which occur in the context of neuromodulation by the noradrenergic locus coeruleus (LC).