Daniel Jeong Rose Hills
Target-Specific Input Architecture of Cingulate Cortex Pyramidal Neurons
Many recent studies have shown that the brains frontal cortex strongly modulates the information processed in the primary sensory cortices. A strong contributor of this modulation, each of the frontal cortical pyramidal neurons can project axons to multiple different brain regions (e.g., thalamus, midbrain, striatum, and other cortical areas) and therefore have fundamentally different roles. However, it is still unknown whether the frontal cortical pyramidal neurons innervating different targets receive inputs from overlapped brain regions or from segregated regions. My research will focus on the cingulate cortex (Cg), the frontal cortex modulating visual response and controlling eye movement in mouse models, and I will use a unique Cre-dependent trans-synaptic tracing method based on pseudotyped rabies virus to examine the input architecture of the Cg pyramidal neurons targeting the primary visual cortex (V1) or the superior colliculus (SC). I am enthusiastic that this study will ultimately result in a more thorough anatomical understanding of the focused regions, opening more opportunities to investigate the importance of these neurons circuitry for regulation of various physiological functions.
Message To Sponsor
I truly appreciate this opportunity to devote this summer to research through the SURF program, made possible through the generosity of the Rose Hills Foundation. This special experience allows me to pursue my interests in the exciting field of neuroscience and develop key skills for the future. In addition, I want to extend my gratitude to my mentors Yang Dan and Siyu Zhang for their continual support and guidance throughout my undergraduate years.