Brain-body neuroimmune interactions
Positioned at the crossroads of neuroscience, immunology, and physiology, our lab studies the biology underlying the communication between the brain and the immune system across scales and ages.
Our research is question-driven. We address our research questions using multi-level interdisciplinary approaches that bridge molecular, cellular, and imaging techniques with behavior. Using mice as model organisms, we combine molecular and cellular approaches (e.g., single-cell RNA-sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, flow cytometry), in vivo two-photon structural and functional imaging, chemogenetics, modern viral and transgenic tools, and behavioral analyses.
The Neuroscience of Immune Responses
One arm of the lab focuses on how the cerebral cortex senses and encodes immune information, and uses it to coordinate behavioral, physiological, and immunological responses.
Cortical sensing and encoding of immune information
Neural basis of predictive regulation of immune function
Immune modulation of cortical networks and behavior
Neuroimmune Pathology Across the Lifespan
The second arm of our research explores how peripheral inflammation disrupts brain function and behavior across development, adulthood, and aging.
How peripheral immunity interacts with aging to modulate dementia risk
Link between inflammation and psychiatric disorders across the lifespan
The influence of stress on chronic inflammation