RESEARCH

TASTE NEURON STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION

We are using a combination of genetic labeling and calcium imaging to examine the relationship between taste neuron structure, function and expression.

TASTE NEURON DEVELOPMENT AND PLASTICITY

For taste neurons the process of connecting with cells in the taste bud is life-long. We are utilizing intra vital imaging to watch this process in the tongue of live animals to determine how this occurs.

ORAL SOMATOSENSORY NEURONS

In addition to taste, food has texture, temperature. We are harnessing genetic labels to determine the structure and function of these neurons and impact taste circuits in the brain.