Research

Growing evidence indicates that there is bidirectional communication between the brain and the immune system. Positioned at the crossroads of neuroscience, immunology, and developmental neurobiology, our lab aims to uncover the basic principles that govern neuroimmune interactions and their effects on brain health. One of our key research areas is investigating how immune information is encoded within cortical circuits. Another significant research focus is on identifying the fundamental biological mechanisms underlying brain and behavioral disorders influenced by immune challenges, particularly during early life. Additionally, we are exploring the role of microglia and other immune cells in modulating neuronal activity and dynamics through longitudinal in vivo imaging studies.

We address these questions using multi-level approaches that bridge molecular, cellular, and imaging techniques with behavior. Using mice as model organisms, we combine molecular approaches (e.g. spatial transcriptomics and single-cell multiomics), in vivo two-photon structural and functional imaging, and modern viral and transgenic tools.