Constructing somatosensory circuits

Dendrites and axons show extraordinarily diverse forms, with important implications for nervous system wiring and neuronal function. One interest of our lab is in how neurons acquire their morphologies and how this underlies circuit function. To approach this problem, we use molecular, genetic, anatomical, and behavioral approaches to identify the mechanisms that sculpt somatosensory circuits during development.  Our studies have focused on nociceptive, proprioceptive, and internal sensory circuits in the fruit fly model system.