Our basic science research focuses on how light environment influence brain circuits that regulate mood and emotions across the life span.

• Adolescent Light Exposure and Brain Circuits Development

We study how irregular light exposure during adolescence—specifically blue light at night —impacts anxiety behaviors and memory. Using translational mouse models, we investigate how exposure to light cycle disrtuption alters brain function and lead to anxiety disorders and cognitive impairments.

• SCN Neuroplasticity and Seasonal Symptoms in Bipolar Disorder

We investigate how seasonal changes in daylenght drive neurotransmitter switching in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), the brain’s circadian pacemaker. This work aims to uncover how photoperiod-induced plasticity in the SCN contributes to the seasonal onset and recurrence of bipolar disorder symptoms.

Our translational work aims to understand how circadian rhythms regulate brain physiology to optimize the timing, potency, and efficacy of medications used to treat psychiatric disorders.

• Circadian Regulation of Dopamine receptor functions

We study how circadian clocks regulate neuronal function in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), a key region in the brain’s reward system. This project aims to enhance antidepressant efficacy by optimizing time-of-day–dependent drug administration. This project is in collaboration with Francis Lab. 

• SCN Dysfunction during Aging

  • We investigate how aging alters the function of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) and contributes to disrupted sleep and circadian rhythms in eldery. This project aims to uncover novel therapeutic targets to rescue circadian regulation and promote healthy aging. This project is in collaboration with Pocivavsek Lab.