Our LAB AIM is to push the boundaries of science in neuroplasticity forward, and help stroke patients to regain their lost motor function better, and faster!
 
Our laboratory studies the mechanisms of neural plasticity underlying sensorimotor learning and stroke recovery by applying innovative multimodal neuroimaging and electrophysiological techniques. We use both human and rodent models to examine translational questions at multiple levels, including cellular, circuits, and behavior.

Stroke does not only disrupt local brain function, but it also results in long-term changes to spinal cord circuits; some are beneficial, some maladaptive! We are interested in understanding how the brain and spinal cord circuits interact and reorganize to support functional recovery in major motor impairments poststroke, such as, force control deficits and spasticity!

Why: We use this knowledge to develop/optimize novel therapies based on neuromodulation for enhancing motor recovery in stroke patients.

   In rodents, we use calcium imaging, and optogenetic fMRI for cell-type specific stimulation and visualization of neural circuits.
   We design and build MR-compatible systems for awake fMRI in behaving mice to study brain reorganization associated with stroke recovery and motor skill learning.

 

---