We are interested in understanding the neural basis of
behavior: in particular, how humans and other animals recognize
patterns and form specific memories. We have focused our attention on
the detection and recognition of pheromones--compounds which modulate
reproductive and aggressive behaviors--by the neurons of the accessory olfactory system.
In pursuit of this goal, we are
- Developing
and exploiting techniques that allow us
to record from large numbers of neurons simultaneously. We use
multielectrode recording to record from many tens of neurons
simultaneously. More recently, we have developed a new
imaging technique, Objective Coupled Planar Illumination (OCPI)
microscopy, that allows rapid imaging of hundreds or thousands of
neurons in a
three-dimensional volume. We believe we hold the world record for "most
single neurons ever recorded." Click on the image below to see a movie
illustrating what you can do with this technique (NOTE: if you experience difficulty, try the free download VLC):
- Using a combination of physiological assays and chemical
analysis to elucidate the nature of the chemical cues used for social
communication.
- Studying the circuitry that processes sensory information about chemical social cues.
- Studying mouse behaviors. We discovered that mice
sing ultrasonic songs, and we have provided a detailed quantitative
description of the properties of these vocalizations.
More details about some of these areas of research can be found in our Publications & Research sections. |
