Basal Ganglia Circuits for
Breathing and Behavior
Email: bonmi.gu@hmh-cdi.org
Understanding neural circuit dynamics of the basal ganglia and its downstream targets
The central goal of our research is to uncover the precise circuit mechanisms of basal ganglia that underlie behavioral and physiological control. We employ diverse neuroscience techniques in mice, including cell-type-specific optogenetic manipulations, neural population dynamics analysis, fiber photometry, and pharmacological interventions.
HOW
WHERE
WHAT
Abnormal behaviors in basal ganglia disorders
Pathological changes in the basal ganglia lead to behavioral and physiological alterations in clinical populations. Basal ganglia disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and obsessive-compulsive disorder, are associated with altered behavioral patterns across multiple domains.
Breathing and basal ganglia interactions
Breathing is a fundamental rhythm of the body, and neural activity across multiple brain regions is coupled to this rhythm. We study how breathing and the basal ganglia influence each other bidirectionally, with the goal of understanding how these interactions shape our behavior.
Gu Lab 