• The structure and function of neocortex, especially prefrontal cortex
• Cellular and synaptic mechanisms of neuronal network activity
• Molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying synaptic transmission
and monoaminergic modulation
• Neurobiology of psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and ADHD

Cerebral cortex is the most complex brain region in the central nervous system. Elucidating its diverse functions represents a major challenge in neurobiology. We are interested in the neuronal mechanisms underlying the synaptic signaling and monoaminergic regulation in the prefrontal cortical circuitry, as well as the critical issues in neuropathology of mental disorders and other neurological diseases. Specifically, we plan to take the advantages of both in vivo and in vitro preparations to examine the neuronal signaling in both normal and animal models of psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia and ADHD.

Work in the laboratory is currently focused in the following projects: 1) monoaminergic regulation of synaptic transmissions and network activity in the prefrontal circuitry; 2) roles of NMDA receptors in the schizophrenia pathological process; and 3) trafficking of glutamate receptors. Our research involves a variety of morphological, physiological, pharmacological, and molecular approaches designed to elucidate the synaptic mechanisms underlying the prefrontal functions. Morphological studies include single-cell labeling, neuronal reconstruction, and immunocytochemistry. Physiological, pharmacological and molecular approaches include multiple whole-cell recordings, drug applications, western blotting, and real-time PCR in fresh brain tissues, acute brain slices, and cell culture preparations. These approaches are mutually supportive with a comprehensive integration across disciplines.