Techniques

We believe that advances in understanding the pathophysiology of complex multifactorial diseases such as depression, addiction, and posttraumatic stress disorder require a multidisciplinary approach. Our research group utilizes a variety of research techniques ranging from ex vivo electrophysiology, to functional anatomy, optogenetics, calcium imaging, biochemistry, and animal behavior to tackle fundamental questions regarding the nature of psychiatric diseases.

Electrophysiology - We utilize whole-cell and field-potential electrophysiological recordings to study synaptic signaling and plasticity. We have state of the art electrophysiological equipment capable of fluorescent-guided patch-clamp, dual patch-cl

Electrophysiology - We utilize whole-cell and field-potential electrophysiological recordings to study synaptic signaling and plasticity. We have state of the art electrophysiological equipment capable of fluorescent-guided patch-clamp, dual patch-clamp recordings, optogenetic and focal micro-stimulation. Voltage-clamp recordings from central amygdala CRF neurons.

Functional Anatomy - We use immunohistochemistry to describe the cellular and sub-cellular localization of proteins relevant to endocannabinoid signaling in different brain regions. We utilize measurements of neuronal activity including early-immedi

Functional Anatomy - We use immunohistochemistry to describe the cellular and sub-cellular localization of proteins relevant to endocannabinoid signaling in different brain regions. We utilize measurements of neuronal activity including early-immediate gene expression, combined with double or triple-labeled immunohistochemistry.

Mass Spectrometry - We utilize stable isotope-dilution tandem LC/MS/MS to quantify endocannabinoid levels in brain tissue.

Mass Spectrometry - We utilize stable isotope-dilution tandem LC/MS/MS to quantify endocannabinoid levels in brain tissue.

Optogenetics - We use in vivo optogenetics to study neural circuit control of complex behavior.

Optogenetics - We use in vivo optogenetics to study neural circuit control of complex behavior.

In Vivo Calcium Imaging - We utilize in vivo calcium imaging to visualize neuronal ensemble activity in awake behaving mice. These approaches allow us to define precise neural correlates of behavior and drug action in identified neuronal populations.

In Vivo Calcium Imaging - We utilize in vivo calcium imaging to visualize neuronal ensemble activity in awake behaving mice. These approaches allow us to define precise neural correlates of behavior and drug action in identified neuronal populations. Both fiber photometry and microendoscopy-based approaches are used in the lab.