My group studies the neural circuits underlying cognitive function and dysfunction as they relate to anxiety, depression, schizophrenia and autism. We use sophisticated technologies to manipulate specific neural circuits in the rodent brain to determine their role in behavior. We are interested in changes in synaptic strength that may underlie mental disorders.
Understanding the link between neural circuits and behavior has been the focus of research in my lab. We are particularly interested in studying the synaptic and circuit mechanisms underlying reward processing, attention, and learning and memory; as well as synaptic and circuit dysfunctions responsible for maladaptive behaviors that are related to major mental disorders. We integrate in vitro and in vivo electrophysiology, imaging, molecular, genetic, optogenetic, and chemogenetic techniques to probe and manipulate the function of specific neural circuits – with a focus on the fear and reward circuits – in the rodent brain, and to determine how these circuits participate in adaptive or maladaptive behavioral responses in various tasks.
The motivation center of the mouse brain in 3D
September 15, 2020
A 3D-model of the mouse brain (gray) showing the dorsal striatum (green), which includes the striosome. Model: Allen Brain Atlas
Reward and punishment take similar paths in the mouse brain
September 15, 2020
One brain structure is involved with both positive and negative reinforcement types of learning.
How the brain balances pleasure and pain
December 31, 2019
The brain balances signals that either excite or inhibit neurons and influence the motivation of an animal to seek a reward or avoid punishment.
CSHL postdocs receive NARSAD Young Investigator Grants
October 30, 2019
Two CSHL neuroscience postdocs conducting neurobiological and psychiatric research received the 2019 NARSAD Young Investigators grant.
Interview with a neuroscientist
May 31, 2019
CSHL Professor Bo Li’s lab studies the biology behind mental disorders. Learn more about how Li’s work is changing the way we think about mental health.
How the brain hears and fears
December 5, 2018
Researchers are studying how the brain reacts to sounds that it associates with fear, and how easy it is for the brain to learn and unlearn.
Scientists show how brain circuit generates anxiety
May 29, 2018
Researchers have identified a circuit in the brain that drives anxiety
Portrait of a Neuroscience Powerhouse
April 27, 2018
A relatively small neuroscience group at CSHL is having an outsized impact on a dynamic and highly competitive field
CSHL’s Bo Li receives BRAIN Initiative funding
December 28, 2017
CSHL Professor Bo Li and two collaborators at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) have been awarded a new grant under the BRAIN Initiative
Building publication list.