HQP Zone
 

Can you briefly explain your current research project, including its main focus and objectives? 

 

My current research project involves studying the physiological mechanisms underlying the functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) signal. fMRI is one of the most useful techniques to measure brain activity. It provides full brain coverage and shows when different regions are active. The technique is completely non-invasive and measures blood flow changes that result from neuronal activity. However, these blood flow changes contain information about many physiological factors other than just neuronal activity. By measuring fMRI simultaneously with other techniques that more directly measure the underlying neuronal dynamics, we can better understand the neuronal and neurochemical contribution to the fMRI signal.

 

Specifically, my project involves combining fMRI with fibre photometry, an optical technique that can measure the activity of groups of specific cell types from deep brain regions. The current objective is to understand the contribution of neurons in general, astrocytes, and nNOS neurons to the fMRI signal in the mouse striatum.

 

 

How do you see your research contributing to the advancement of knowledge in your field? 

 

This work will help to develop better interpretations of fMRI data and possibly lead to gaining insights into the dynamics of neurotransmitters and neuromodulators from fMRI scans alone which is currently not feasible. This can be used to monitor and assess the brain in both typical and pathological states.

 

 

What initially drew you to this field of research? 

 

I have always been fascinated with the brain. It is involved in all aspects of how we go about and experience the world. Even small changes can have large effects on personality and function. A comprehensive understanding of the brain has the potential to radically impact wellbeing. I believe it is both exciting and frightening how little we know about this critical organ and having the opportunity to study and contribute to our collective understanding of it is very fulfilling.