Lab Projects
Neuronal circuits mediating the effects of light on mood and cognition
We recently identified the perihabenular nucleus (PHb), a thalamic hub interconnected with limbic areas, which processes light to control mood in mice. In parallel, light signals relayed by the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) affect hippocampal functions and learning. Current research aims to identify the distinct features of these light-sensing circuits that mediate the deleterious effects of irregular light exposure.
Photic perception within visual and non-visual thalamic circuits
Image-forming vision is driven by a well-known nucleus of the thalamus, the dLGN, which routes light signals to the visual cortex. Our research aims to uncover novel retina-thalamus circuits that, beyond image-forming vision, modulate subconscious and innate functions, including alertness, sleep/wake cycles, and mood-related behavior.
Effects of lighting conditions on feeding responses
Sensory systems extract time information from many environmental cues, affecting rhythmic processes. Among external cues, food access is critical for survival. In the lab we investigate the mechanisms controlling rhythmic aspects of food seeking and feeding behavior across the day/night cycle, as well as how different lighting conditions and retinal signals modulate food consumption.
Sensory and circadian systems development
The mammalian retina routes light information to the central circadian pacemaker of the body, housed in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), setting internal time-keeping mechanisms. In addition to the retina, multiple brain and systemic signals adjust SCN's rhythms. In the lab we investigate the mechanisms that guide the proper assembly of circuits linking sensory and circadian systems during developmental stages.
