| Research interests: |
We are interested in the interaction between neurotransmitter systems involving endocannabinoids, noradrenaline, dopamine and glutamate, in vivo synaptic plasticity and addiction. We have shown that the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) efficient relays cortical excitation to dopamine neurons of the ventral tegmental area (VTA). The BNST, small nucleus of amygdala has a strategic position to regulate the site of reward pathway. In our team, a researcher has demonstrated that the endocannabinoid system is one of the most important neuronal modulator in the reward pathway; so, we have tested the endocannabinoid system in the BNST to identify some new functions.
We use a multidisciplinary approach including neuroanatomy, in vivo electrophysiology and track tracing. |
| Research projects: |
Our lab examines the neuronal mechanisms that control the synaptic and cellular function of the « extended basal ganglia network » (EBG). The EBG neuronal network is composed of an assembly of interconnected limbic and motor nuclei that are crucial for physiological functions (voluntary movements, associative learning, natural seeking and stress) and neurological and psychiatric disorders such as Parkinson's disease, addiction and anxiety. The brain structures, which compose the EBG, regulate dopamine neurons or use dopamine as a neurotransmitter. The circuit includes the dopamine-containing neurons of the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and substantia nigra pars compacta, the basal ganglia, the motor cortex, the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST), the tail of the VTA and the ventral subiculum. |
| Publications: |
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