EMBO Member

Herwig Baier

MPI for Biological Intelligence, Martinsried | Germany

EMBO 2013

Genetic and optical analysis of circuits and behavior

The ultimate task of the brain is the generation of behavior. The goal of our research is to understand how networks of neurons convert sensory inputs into behavioral responses. With the help of 'optogenetic' actuators, such as Channelrhodopsin (ChR2) or Halorhodopsin (eNpHR), we are able to optically turn on or off subpopulations of neurons in zebrafish larvae. This approach is helping us to dissect the circuits that control behavior.

Keywords: Neural circuits / behavior / zebrafish / optogenetics / axon guidance

Subject area(s): Development | Neuroscience