Introduction

Neural circuits are the neural basis for memory and emotions. The pathological changes associated with the neural circuits can cause neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiartrate diseases. Microglia, one specific type of glial cells in the brain, have been found to have important roles in synapse development and maturation of the neural circuit. A major deficit in microglia numbers is sufficient to induce autism-related phenotypes. The lab studies the interaction between the glia and the neurons at physiological, information processing and neural circuitry levels using multidisciplinary approaches. We take advantage of optogenetic and pharmacogenetic tools to manipulate neurons and microglia to study the neuronal or microglial pathways that control specific behaviors. Neural circuit tracing techniques are employed to study the structural and functional mechanisms. The lab also aims to collaborate with non-human primate experts and employ the newly developed genetic monkey models to facilitate the translational neuroscience research. We are also developing computational tools for analyzing recorded neuronal activities, including spikes, local field potentials, EEG and optical signals.