Neural basis of survival behaviors

Uncovering the dysregulated neural circuit mechanisms underlying human pathophysiology is crucial for understanding disorders such as PTSD, generalized anxiety, and metabolic or social dysfunctions. The same neural circuits that drive normal instinctual responses can, when dysregulated, give rise to these pathologies. Notably, their high comorbidity suggests overlapping circuit-level disruptions across clinically distinct conditions. In our research, we aim to pinpoint the critical neural sites of dysregulation and target them with neuromodulatory or pharmacological interventions to mitigate broad pathophysiological phenotypes.

Animals can perform complex motor sequences without any prior experience—referred to as instinctual behavior. These extensive action programs often arise from gene-driven processes. A striking example is the newly hatched iguana (shown in the) that instinctively flees snake-infested terrain, activating prearranged neural circuits moments after first encountering sunlight. Our research aims to identify and map the neural circuit architecture that drives such instinctive responses, with a particular focus on fear-based, social, and homeostatic behaviors.