Our group aims to identify novel drug targets to treat depression and anxiety disorders. We focus on the inhibitory cells in the hippocampus, cells that are highly associated with these conditions. By applying cell-type-specific approaches, we search for new targets that mediate the function of these cells, and therefore, depression and anxiety-like behaviors. 

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A major focus of our lab is Neurensin-2. We recently identified this novel protein as a dynamic, cell-type-specific regulator of emotional behavior. By combining molecular, physiological, cellular, and behavioral approaches, we aim to understand how Neurensin-2 mediates depression and anxiety and develop the next generation of anxiolytics and antidepressants.