RG Physiology of Neural Networks

We study experience-dependent brain plasticity and focus on neuromodulatory systems. These can release a variety of transmitters, depending on the behavioral state. Spatial orienting, for example, leads to release of acetylcholine, alerting leads to release of noradrenaline, and novelty detection or attentional processes lead to release of dopamine. We apply electrophysiology in vivo and ex vivo in brain slices to study the timing and context of neuromodulator action, which are critical for information processing and computation and can be altered in pathological conditions.