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 beginning studies involving cue-evoked feeding behavior in mice. We performed precise behavioral assays while simultaneously monitoring neuromodulatory signaling in specific neurons in amygdala, parabrachial nucleus, and ventral tegmental area.