Investigating the mechanisms of dopamine signaling
Dopamine is a crucial signaling molecule that controls reward and locomotory pathways in the brain. The lab is interested in investigating how dopamine regulates behavior at the level of cells, synapses, and circuits.
Project Areas
Genetics
Cell Biology
Cell Biology
The lab is interested in identifying novel genes involved in dopamine synthesis, secretion, and reception. Projects here involve genetic screening, mapping, and sequencing techniques.
Cell Biology
Cell Biology
Cell Biology
Dopamine signaling depends on the correct distribution of dopamine receptors. The lab uses imaging techniques to observe how various dopamine receptors localize within cells of living worms.
Behavior
Cell Biology
Behavior
Dopamine regulates several important behaviors in living organisms, including locomotion and the consolidation of memory. The lab investigates dopamine-mediated behaviors in the nematode C. elegans.