We use bidirectional cell-specific circuit manipulation, or chemogenetics. We use Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADDs) to inhibit or excite different brain regions over long periods of time. This technique is specially relevant to study complex and long tasks. 

Optogenetics is a method for controlling a neuron’s activity using light and genetic engineering. We use channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2), an opsin that responds exclusively to blue light. When ChR2 is inserted into neurons, blue light can be used to turn those neurons on. 

Optogenetic stimulation is very specific, which allow us to turn on/off neurons at target moments, such us milliseconds before an animal makes a decision. 

We study complex behaviors that requires good experimental design, proper controls and lots of counterbalancing. We take pride in following principales of Pavlovian and Operant conditioning, aware than a deep understanding of animal behavior and a solid task design are essential.

We have access to traditional operant boxes, different mazes and open field to perform our experiments.