We are interested in understanding the biological systems through which stress drives cellular changes in the brain that underlie perturbations of cognition and emotion. Based on a better understanding of these systems we aim to design novel and precise therapeutic interventions for stress-related brain disorders. Our core expertise lies in neuropsychopharmacology and behavioural monitoring. In ongoing research projects, we apply transcranial electrical stimulation and chemogenetic interventions with the aim of targeting specific populations of brain cells to induce therapeutic effects. In addition, we use immunological and electrophysiological techniques for mechanistic investigations.
Ongoing research projects:
- Effects of transcranial electrical stimulation on fear expression and fear extinction
- Role of 5-H2a receptors in the effects of psychedelics on fear expression and fear extinction
- Characterization of the neuromedin U system and its involvement in the stress response
Ongoing collaborations:
- Early-life stress effects on gut-brain communication
- Role of neurogenesis in a mouse model for post-stroke dementia
- Effect of transcranial electrical stimulation on remyelination in multiple sclerosis
PI
Dimitri De Bundel
Thomas Demuyser
C4N researchers
Mireia Medrano
Sarah Rubens
Liam Nestor
Robin Gens
Thomas Scheinok
Jessy Meert