Abstract:
The Mao laboratory is interested in elucidating the structure-function relationships of brain circuits underlying animal behavior and how these circuits are modulated by disease, brain state and behavioral context. We use cutting-edge technologies, including quantitative anatomy, imaging, computational approaches, genetics, and functional circuit mapping, in the mouse model to examine the fundamental principles governing neuronal connectivity and its regulation. In parallel, our laboratory develops and implements novel imaging tools and computational algorithms for the monitoring and manipulation of these circuits.
In this seminar, I will present our recent efforts to establish and apply novel imaging techniques that enable in vivo imaging of intracellular signalling dynamics with single-neuron resolution underlying neuromodulation. This is achieved through our recent work developing, implementing, and rigorously characterizing the new-generation of genetically encoded cAMP and PKA sensors for in vivo imaging at single cell and subcellular resolution. Furthermore, I will discuss our findings utilizing these sensors to quantify cell type-specific responses to multiple neuromodulators, as well as cellular and circuit-level mechanisms to opioid modulation.