Neuromodulation of sensory processing

Sensory processing is heavily dependent upon on brain state, which is regulated by several neuromodulatory systems, including the locus coeruleus – norepinephrine (LC-NE) system. As the primary source of NE to the forebrain through widespread projections, the LC regulates many essential brain functions. We use electrophysiology, gene editing, opto/chemogenetic manipulation, and behavioral paradigms, to investigate how LC activity modulates the formation of perception and behavior in both health and disease.

Electrophysiology recording in the whisker pathway with different levels of activation of the LC-NE system.