My research interest is focused in understanding how an ensemble of neurons wire together to form specific neuronal circuits and how these circuits process neuronal information. These events are highly dynamic and susceptible to modifications in the face of a continuously changing flow of sensory information, in physiological and pathological situations. We investigate neuronal connectivity and network dynamics mostly in the olfactory system and connected areas. Most animals rely on olfactory cues for vital functions such as identifying food, preys and predators. In humans, odors has the incredible power to bring vivid memory from the past and to elicit strong emotional feelings. The olfactory system and the numerous brain areas connected to it, in particular the hippocampus, offer indeed a unique useful model to investigate sensory and cognitive processes. Furthermore, the olfactory system is highly conserved among species.

To understand the neuronal basis of olfactory percept, we provided several contributions on the mechanism underlying the topographic organization of the olfactory bulb, dissecting the role of odorant receptor and spontaneous afferent activity in sculpting neuronal connectivity and functions.

Our research is now focused in understanding how the specific architecture of neuronal wiring in the olfactory bulb serves specific sensory and cognitive processes. These events can be deeply altered in pathological conditions. The olfactory system is indeed involved in several neurological diseases, such as neurodevelopmental (autism) and neurodegenerative (such as Parkinson’s) disorders. By understanding the mechanisms underlying network activity in the olfactory bulb and in the connected brain areas, we aim to design tailored strategies to modulate and/or rescue proper neuronal activity and function of the involved neuronal circuits.

To address these topics, we combine a wide range of approaches, including electrophysiological recordings, optogenetics, multiphoton imaging, behaviour and anatomy.