Ikuko T. Smith lab iSLAB

The primary research goal here at iSLAB is to elucidate the cellular and network mechanisms by which neural circuitry functions. During sensory perception, neural circuitry processes information by filtering, amplifying, and integrating electrical signals. We want to uncover the underpinnings of such processes using electrophysiology, two-photon imaging, intrinsic signal optical imaging, behavioral analyses, and computational modeling.

One of our key interests is to decipher the role of active dendritic mechanisms in dendritic computation of synaptic inputs. Much like axons, neuronal dendrites are capable of firing electrical spikes. Such thresholded spiking allows local pieces of dendrites to serve as fundamental units of nonlinear input integration (think “transistors”) rather than passive continuous cables. This concept vastly increases the computational power of a single neuron. The goal of our research is to understand how and when such an active mechanism is engaged and plays a functional role and how it can be regulated by the local circuitry including those of inhibitory interneurons.