“Functions of hypothalamic neurons in regulation of arousal and vigilance states in response to environmental challenges”

We are trying to understand how hypothalamic neurons alter animals’ behavior, wakefulness and bodily functions to adopt environmental challenges. We use various viral vectors as neuronal tracers or vectors for delivery of exogenous genes to particular neurons to manipulate their functions in combination with genetically modified mice. We analyze the architecture of neuronal circuit involving the limbic system, reward system, hypothalamus and brains stem, and optogenetically/phamacogenetically manipulate these circuits to understand their physiological functions.

 
Recent Publications
1. Mieda, M., Ono, D., Hasegawa, E., Okamoto,H., Honma, K., Honma, S., Sakurai, T. Cellular Clocks in AVP Neurons of the SCN Are Critical for Interneuronal Coupling Regulating Circadian Behavior Rhythm. Neuron, 2015, 85(5): 1103–1116.
2. Soya S, Shoji H, Hasegawa E, Miyakawa T, Hondo M, Mieda M, Sakurai T Orexin Receptor-1 in Locus Coeruleus plays an Important Role in Cue-Dependent Fear Memory Consolidation J Neurosci. 2013 Sep 4;33(36):14549-57.

Posted:2016/03/10