The mechanisms by which the auditory cortices develop unique sound processing capabilities remain unknown. Recent research conducted in our lab has indicated notable variations in the maturation trajectory of the auditory cortices. To gain insights into the molecular pathways responsible for these differences, we investigate changes in gene expression between the auditory cortices using spatial transcriptomics.
Connectivity determines function in the brain. Therefore, to investigate the circuitry responsible for decoding sounds we use quantitative synaptic circuit analysis in vitro. Using this approach, we have uncovered distinct lateralized circuit motifs in the auditory cortices, adding mechanistic insight into the asymmetrical organization of auditory processing. We have also uncovered disrupted connectivity in mouse models of neuropsychiatric disorders, providing valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms contributing to these conditions.
The process by which the auditory cortex combines spectro-temporal features to form auditory streams, such as a voice or a symphony, remains unknown. In our laboratory, we focus on unraveling the compositional nature of auditory representations and understanding how they can be disrupted in neuropsychiatric disorders. To achieve this, we employ high-density silicon probe recordings, enabling us to capture detailed neuronal activity patterns and decipher the intricate mechanisms underlying auditory perception.
We utilize ethological behaviors to study the development of the auditory cortex’s role in responding to social calls, or vocalizations. Ethological behaviors are innate responses that are directly associated with an animal’s social interactions and communication. By observing and analyzing ethological behaviors, we gain insights into how the auditory cortex evolves and adapts in order to process and respond to social calls. We aim to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to the development of auditory cortical circuits involved in the perception of social vocalizations.
Brain-clearing techniques, combined with immunolabeling of immediate-early genes, enable high-throughput and unbiased 3D mapping of neuronal activity. We utilize cFos activity mapping to screen for deficits in sound-evoked responses in the central auditory system, allowing us to identify structures where auditory processing diverges from wildtype in neuropsychiatric mouse models