Research: Body-brain cybernetics

Neuronal information flow between body and brain

How do signals originating within the internal and superficial layers of the body influence our decisions and actions? We study the neural networks that link body sensors to skeletomuscular effectors (“body-brain cybernetics”). Specifically, we make use of modern neurobiological tools to unveil the large-scale networks linking body parts to molecularly identified neurons in the brain. Methodologically, we use the vertebrate feeding system, including predatory hunting, to model body-brain communication. With clear behavioral readouts, feeding and prey capture are ideally suited for studying how body sensors generate motor actions.

Selected Publications

Zhang et al. (2022) An inter-organ neural circuit for appetite suppression.      Cell (In Press July 2022).

Han et al. (2018) A Neural Circuit for Gut-Induced Reward.      Cell 175(3):665-678.

Han et al. (2017). Integrated Control of Predatory Hunting by the Central Nucleus of the Amygdala.     Cell 168(1-2):311-324.

Tellez et al. (2016) Separate Circuitries Encode the Hedonic and Nutritional Values of Sugar.     Nature Neuroscience 19(3):465-70.

Han et al. (2016) Striatal Dopamine Links Gastrointestinal Rerouting to Altered Sweet Appetite.    Cell Metabolism 23(1):103-12.

Tellez et al. (2013) A gut lipid messenger links excess dietary fat to dopamine deficiency.     Science 341:800-2.