We are broadly interested in molecular programs that shape cognition and behavior. Our current work centers on circulating factors (i.e. hormones)— produced by peripheral organs, influenced by environment and somatic state, and readily measured in human bio-samples. These hormones enter the brain and impact myriad cell types to tune neural circuits and shape cognition and behavior. Importantly, they are dysregulated in common brain disorders, and modulating hormone levels (insulin, GLP-1, thyroid hormone, among others) have led to successful treatments for many diseases of modernity, from diabetes to depression.

We are pursuing several interconnected projects:
Synchronizing brain and body – Organisms must align their behavior with bodily needs to survive in their ever-changing environment. Circulating hormones, including thyroid hormone, glucocorticoids, and GLP-1, are prime candidates for coordinating organ function and behavior as they orchestrate the physiology of peripheral tissues, while also entering the brain to profoundly shape mood and cognition. We ask how hormones sculpt neural circuits to coordinate behavior with the needs of the body and demands of the environment, and how these processes go awry in disease.

Hidden brain states – It is often assumed that hormone levels measured in the blood reflect levels throughout the body. Yet this is often not the case — individual organs, and even specific cell types within those organs can regulate their local hormone levels. By inventing and utilizing cutting-edge tools, we aim to elucidate the regulatory framework controlling brain-specific hormone levels and uncover their importance to normal brain function and disease.

Predicting human health and behavior – Circulating factors can be measured in blood and other bio-samples. After generating hypotheses in animal models, we test them in human behavioral, longitudinal, and genetic studies to translate our work and have a direct impact on human health