The de Lecea Lab
The role of neuromodulators in neural circuits and behavior
Our lab is interested in the role of neuromodulators in mammalian behavior, especially behaviors related to sleep, reward, stress, and learning/memory. In the late 1990s we discovered the Hypocretin system and we continue to uncover new roles for this system in vivo. We also study other neuromodulators such as dopamine, norepinephrine, histamine, melanin-concentrating hormone, and others. To study these systems we use molecular and systems neuroscience techniques such as optogenetics, electrophysiology, viral gene delivery, histology, and a variety of behavioral assays. We hope you enjoy exploring our lab and please feel free to contact us!
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