Research

Neural circuit mechanisms underlying Reinforcement learning and decision-making

How do we learn new behavioral actions from experiences? How do we make decisions on what actions to take at a given circumstance based on experiences? Accumulating evidence has suggested that reinforcement learning may induce specific changes in neuronal excitability, activity and/or connectivity in specific neuronal ensembles, which could serve as a potential locus for memory engram. Furthermore, complex neural circuits may be involved in executing behavioral decisions based on learned experiences. In our laboratories, we use rodent models to explore the neural circuits, neuronal ensembles, and synaptic activity/plasticity that underlying memory formation and retrieval mechanisms. Rodent behavior training, in vivo tetrode recording, in vivo imaging, slice recording, optogenetics and immunohistochemistry are used in these studies.