Marie Carlén

Biography

Neural Circuits and Behaviour  Department of Neuroscience

Research Interest

The new technique optogenetics employs light to activate or inhibit neurons. Genetic targeting of light-sensitive proteins to selected neuronal populations enables detailed analysis of their role in brain processes and behaviors. We are using optogenetics to establish the physiological and cellular basis for cognition, focusing on attention and working memory. With the use of Cre-loxP strategies, we are manipulating the PV interneurons in prefrontal cortex during attention and working memory tasks, and analyze the effects on synchronization of brain activity and cognitive performance in the tasks. We hope that this strategy will not only decipher cognition, but also let us establish cellular underpinnings of dysfunctional cognitive functions and behavioral changes in psychiatric disorders.