Neuromodulator signals regulating cue-induced feeding

National Institute Of Diabetes And Digestive And Kidney Diseases

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to understand the cellular and neural circuit mechanisms by which neuromodulatory signaling controls learning about and responding to food predicting environmental cues. We hypothesize that the convergence of dopamine signaling and input from the parabrachial nucleus within the amygdala is critical for learning about and action in response to food cues. We will use causal manipulations (optogenetics and chemogenetics), high resolution two-photon imaging, and operant conditioning tasks in awake mice to develop a mechanistic understanding of neuromodulatory signaling within the amygdala necessary for cue-evoked food seeking. This year, the lab focused on acquiring and building equipment to study cue-evoked feeding behavior in mice. This equipment will allow us to perform precise behavioral assess while simultaneously monitoring neuromodulatory signaling in specific neurons. We recruited a team of scientists with experience in rodent behavior and began working on establishing the necessary transgenic mice to allow us to study specific neuronal populations.