Summary
Our interest is to understand how genetically identified cell types and their projections drive behaviors essential for survival. Using the mouse as our model system, we apply optogenetics and chemogenetics to manipulate neuronal circuits in awake, behaving mice. In addition, we use a combination of electrophysiology, fluorescence endomicroscopy, and behavioral assays to elucidate the neuronal basis of survival behaviors (e.g., feeding and nociception) and to determine how these neuronal circuits drive the rewarding and addictive nature of food intake. Evidence for the addictive properties of
