Genetic and neuromodulatory regulation of social behavior
The changes to physiology and behavior that occur with age are mediated by altered reproductive and neuroendocrine signaling as well as specific genetic and molecular programs. These distinct developmental transitions in physiology and neural function provide a window into adaptive brain function and expose vulnerabilities to disease. Our goal is to understand how the neural circuits underlying social behaviors adapt to endocrine and genetic regulation in the setting of healthy aging. We are particularly interested in how neuromodulatory systems, like oxytocinergic and vasopressinergic signaling, differentially regulate physiology and behavior with age. We apply genetic models, transcriptomic profiling, and behavioral analysis across species to examine changes in these pathways.
Selective vulnerability of neural mechanisms for social behavior
Social attachments are critical for health and well-being. Not only are these behaviors acutely vulnerable to neuropsychiatric diseases, but the loss or absence of social bonds are associated with increased risk for numerous adverse age-related health outcomes, including neurodegenerative diseases. Yet, surprisingly, we understand very little about how disease intersects with attachment behaviors. We have developed novel genetic models of neurodegenerative disease in the prairie vole, allowing for advances in the mechanistic understanding of attachment behaviors and their vulnerability in dementia and other neuropsychiatric illnesses.
Funding
The lab is currently supported by grants from the NIH/NIA, the Alzheimer’s Association, the UCSF Physician Scientist Scholar Program, and the UCSF Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (ADRC). Individuals in the lab have obtained support from the NSF, the Larry L. Hillblom Foundation, and the AP Giannini Foundation.