OPTOGENETICS AND CHEMOGENETICS

Using optogenetics and chemogenetics we are able to control the activity of targeted subpopulation of neurons in mice while they are performing behavioural tasks. Thanks to these techniques, we can causally link the contribution of specific cells in particular cognitive functions.

IN VIVO CALCIUM IMAGING​

We use miniaturized microscopes implanted in the mouse brain, to visualize the neuronal activity in real time while the mice are performing behavioural tasks.

NETWORK ANALYSIS​

Specific cognitive functions are thought to be supported by the coordinated activity of a distributed network of brain regions, rather than isolated brain regions alone. We use a network approach to explore regions that are co-active during the recall of memory traces in normal and pathological conditions.

CIRCUITS​

We trace and target specific circuits to identify anatomical connections and then manipulate them optogenetically to reveal their involvement in specific behavioural processes.

MORPHOLOGICAL ANALYSIS

We visualize the plastic changes that occur after the acquisition or the recall of a memory trace by studying the morphology of synaptic spines.

BEHAVIOUR​

The behavioural analysis is a key component of our research: the final goal is to understand the mice behaviour during the processing of learning and memory tasks by decoding their neuronal activity and brain plasticity.