A division of the Integrative Neuroscience Research Branch
Unit Chief
Contact
Location:
Biomedical Research Center
RM 08A729
251 Bayview Blvd., Suite 200
Baltimore, MD 21224
Phone: 667-312-5020
Email: flavia.barbano@nih.gov
About the Lab
The Barbano Lab investigates how genetically and molecularly defined neuronal populations and their synaptic connections regulate motivated behaviors essential for survival, and how alterations in these circuits contribute to maladaptive behaviors such as addiction and compulsive eating. Our research focuses on the ventral tegmental area (VTA) as a heterogeneous neural hub that integrates information about environmental threats, internal physiological states, and pharmacological signals to establish behavioral priorities and adaptive responses. Using mouse models, we combine optogenetics, chemogenetics, in vivo neuronal activity recordings, advanced imaging, anatomical and molecular approaches, and behavioral assays to investigate the contributions of specific neuronal cell types and their projections to innate defensive responses, feeding, reward, and drug seeking. A central interest of the lab is understanding how interactions among glutamatergic, GABAergic, dopaminergic, and neuromodulatory circuits enable adaptive behavioral responses and how exposure to addictive substances disrupts these interactions. By identifying the cellular, synaptic, and circuit mechanisms underlying the transition from adaptive to maladaptive motivated behaviors, our ultimate goal is to uncover novel, circuit-specific therapeutic strategies for treating substance use and eating disorders, as well as other neuropsychiatric conditions characterized by dysregulated motivation and behavioral control.
