Associate Director : Seung-Hee Lee
Neural Mechanisms of Sensory Processing and Integration
Our research aims to understand the neural basis of sensory processing and integration. This research will provide crucial information on how the cortex constructs a meaningful sensory world that facilitates an animal’s behavioral decisions. In the cortex, excitatory and inhibitory neurons make complicated synaptic circuits. The morphology, gene expression profiles, and connectivity within circuits can further define the neuronal types in the cortex. How are different cell types in the cortex involved in sensory integration for decision-making? Recent advances in the genetic identification of neurons and the ability to trace specific projection neurons in the intact brain have allowed researchers to dissect key circuits that guide animal behavior. Moreover, optogenetic manipulation of neural activity in vivo revealed the causal relationship between neural activity and cognitive processes in the brain. We will use these cutting-edge techniques to advance our knowledge of how cortical circuits make optimal decisions by combining sensory information. Collectively, we will find key cortical circuits and cell types important for sensory integration and adaptive decisions. The results will further define alterations in these processes in the mouse models of psychiatric disorders. Insights from our study should be applicable to treating cognitive disorders and psychiatric disorders such as autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia.