Research questions

  • How do GPCRs regulate neuronal activity, synaptic plasticity, and animal behavior?

  • How do disease-relevant experiences usurp, impair, or modify synaptic plasticity mechanisms?

  • How can we leverage this information to identify new psychiatric treatments?

Our research methods

  • Whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology

    Whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology is a technique used to measure the ionic currents passing through the entire cell membrane, providing detailed information about the cell's electrical properties and ion channel activity.

  • Optogenetics-assisted circuit mapping

    Optogenetics-assisted circuit mapping is a technique that uses light to control genetically modified neurons, enabling precise investigation of neural circuits and their functional connections within the brain.

  • In vivo biosensor-based imaging

    In vivo biosensor-based imaging is a technique that uses biosensors to monitor and visualize biochemical processes and molecular activities within living organisms in real time.

  • Rodent behavioral techniques

    Rodent behavioral techniques are experimental methods used to study and analyze the behavior, cognitive functions, and neurological responses of rodents in controlled settings to gain insights into brain function and disease.

Active Funding

DP1 (PI), NIDA, DP1DA060482

8/1/24 – 5/31/29

Developing GPCR modulators of somatostatin interneurons for the treatment of opioid use disorder

R00 (PI), NIAAA, R00AA027806

9/1/21 – 8/31/24

Sex differences in fast-spiking interneurons promote AUD-related PFC dysfunction

Research Grant (PI), Whitehall Foundation

10/1/22 – 9/31/25

VIP interneurons orchestrate PFC adaptations to stress

NARSAD YI Award (PI), Brain and Behavior Research Foundation

1/15/23 – 1/14/25

Manipulating alcohol memories by modulating PFC PV-INs

Completed Funding

R00 admin supplement (PI), NIAAA, R00AA027806-04S1

3/10/23 – 8/31/23

Sex differences in fast-spiking interneurons promote AUD-related PFC dysfunction

K99 (PI), NIAAA, K99AA027806

6/2/20 – 8/31/21

Sex differences in fast-spiking interneurons promote AUD-related PFC dysfunction

Fellowship (PI), PhRMA Foundation;

6/1/17 – 5/31/19

Modulation of prefrontal cortex function by mGlu 3 in rodent models of Major Depressive Disorder

Fellowship, NIMH, 5T32MH093366

6/1/16 – 5/31/17

CNS Drug Discovery Research Training Grant

Join the lab

Contact us to learn more about the work being done in the lab.