https://www.sciolinolab.org/contact daily 0.75 2023-06-19 https://www.sciolinolab.org/publications daily 0.75 2025-09-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/9652c219-a298-4d2a-b61d-14348a1d13c4/NSC_v585.jpg Publications https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/0dcee982-c616-4829-ad3d-6b9c3bf541b8/eNeuro.jpg Publications https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/176db657-1f4f-4e31-9a93-e633cbda7ece/ScienceAdvances+2022.png Publications https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1598804070950-R8AYGUWKHIPJTTYEFYE7/BSF+cover.jpg Publications https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1599591032711-OVBWGIQ61CTDICJQR1M8/Cell+Reports+Website-border.jpg Publications https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1600259777034-MDRYSW9TUESA6655T34D/640px-US-NLM-PubMed-Logo.svg.png Publications https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1599918347854-NECAQ9SKBHTIAUF9G011/Google_Scholar_logo_2015.png Publications https://www.sciolinolab.org/join daily 0.75 2025-06-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1601842091867-6M2VU3L36AQPGZWHNN25/scenicUntitled_HDR2.jpg Join the Team https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1599502499303-N9SHKCOTKR1J1B5LSIG9/200422a030.jpg Join the Team https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1601836777617-FGITM8298BMTGB9OB9KO/student-union190508c390.JPG Join the Team Students walking across Hillside Road and Fairfield Way on May 8, 2019. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1599310356495-JECLVA912YOAB1PCUIOU/golden190918b017.JPG Join the Team Scenic photos from the air (drone) of Fairfield Way on Sept. 18, 2019. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1599309258874-TDA4GCJRHBALIEA7B2F3/horsebarn200801c129.jpg Join the Team Students on Horsebarn Hill wearing masks while waiting for sunset on September 1, 2020. (UConn photo/SeanFlynn) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1599310288651-N2XIQOINNYCD9HIU6IFN/great-lawn170502b033.jpg Join the Team https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1599310216947-YXFN3BWYK9OOB98Q2FDB/aerial191205b0007.jpg Join the Team https://www.sciolinolab.org/techniques daily 0.75 2025-02-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1600910420680-CU05HG640LJI3CUECAQE/intersectional+genetics+simplified+2.jpg Techniques - Intersectional genetics We use viral and intersectional genetic methods to restrict expression of reporters and effector molecules to anatomically and genetically defined neuronal populations. These methods allow us to uncover the diverse roles of specific cell types in motivated behavior. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1599536562363-DL8VIO75VN5JMJR73UR0/photometry.jpg Techniques - In vivo fiber photometry In vivo recordings using genetically encoded calcium indicators (e.g., GCaMP) or neurotransmitter sensors (e.g., norepinephrine sensor) allow us to measure the activity patterns of defined neuronal populations in behaving mice. By leveraging a custom-built system that uses two spectrometers, we are able to simultaneously monitor fluorescent activity in up to two brain regions. Our lab uses this fiber photometry system to understand how temporally-specific changes in neuronal activity is involved in encoding appetitive and consummatory behavior. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/8d3f9fcc-f5f4-4db2-a345-759d3c788c91/website+generic+miniscope.jpg Techniques - In vivo minature microscope imaging We are performing single-cell, single-photon imaging of calcium and neurotransmitter activity with fluorescence based sensors (e.g., GCaMP, GRAB-NE sensor) recorded using implantable miniature microscopes in freely behaving mice. The Inscopix nVue system enables dual color imaging of two distinct cell populations, whereas the nVoke system enables single color imaging with simultaneous optogenetic manipulation to causally link neural circuit activity with behavior. We are applying these technologies to determine the neuromodulatory effects of locus coeruleus activity on forebrain neurons regulating feeding and taste. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1599576408603-2GYSSVMJU0M6OXW9JBGQ/optogenetics.jpg Techniques - Optogenetics Optogenetic technologies allow us to manipulate neuronal activity in precise cells and circuits with high-temporal resolution. The optogenetic toolbox includes different types of ion gated channels, including channelrhodopsin and halorhodopsin, that are activated by blue and yellow light respectively and rapidly lead to bidirectional changes in neuronal activity. We use wired and wireless optogenetic technologies that couple light- and drug-delivery in the same device, providing an ability to manipulate neuronal activity on fast and longer timescales. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1599572002650-VN15VGDOXOT9DLVYM8MY/chemogenetics.jpg Techniques - Chemogenetics We leverage chemogenetics to non-invasively control activity of diverse cell types to uncover their function in motivational processes. This technique uses Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADDS), which are G-protein coupled receptors that have been mutated in such a way that they are no longer responsive to the innate ligand acetylcholine, but instead are activated by designer drugs. We deliver these drugs peripherally or directly into the brain to understand the function of different brain cell types and their signaling processes in motivated behavior. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1599511836797-5RYVREG57WC1CIJL6VH0/white+background+brain_cropped+brightened.jpg Techniques - Immunohistochemistry & In Situ Hybridization We use a variety of histological techniques, including immunohistochemistry for protein labeling and fluorescent in situ hybridization for mRNA labeling in mouse brain tissues. We then visualize our samples using confocal and epifluorescence microscopy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1599517034996-FNG5SWTYSUVLSIKP88AN/mouse+with+food+white+background.jpg Techniques - Behavior Our work focuses on motivated behaviors which have distinct phases. The appetitive phase is directed towards seeking a desired stimulus (e.g., seeking food), and the consummatory phase includes sensory, motor and reward processes related to obtaining the desired outcome (e.g., eating food). We also study aversion, another motivated behavior, characterized by agitation and defense due to the presence of a stressor (e.g. predator). By monitoring behavior at high temporal resolution using state-of-the art tracking systems (e.g., DeepLabCut, Noldus Ethovision), we are able to link changes in behavior to neural activity. https://www.sciolinolab.org/teamwill daily 0.75 2025-03-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/5c733f80-e309-42e1-8340-ea6ebc5f9ed8/Image-removebg-preview.jpg Will Fan - Will (Qichen) Fan PhD Student Will began his graduate program in Physiology and Neurobiology in 2021. Before coming to UConn, he studied Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology at Emory University. Will is interested in how complex behaviors are controlled at the circuit level. He joined the lab to learn some cutting-edge techniques for analyzing neural circuits. He has considered getting a brain transplant but changed his mind. Email: qichen.fan@uconn.edu https://www.sciolinolab.org/teamnatale daily 0.75 2024-09-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/e7be86d6-1978-4a2f-ba5a-9c8ad61d3374/Photo_Natale+Sciolino.jpg Natale Sciolino - NATALE SCIOLINO, PHD natale.sciolino@uconn.edu ASSISTANT PROFESSOR | DEPARTMENT OF PHYSIOLOGY & NEUROBIOLOGY I completed my PhD in Neuroscience at the University of Georgia under the direction of two leading norepinphrine neurobiologists, Philip V. Holmes, PhD (UGA) and David Weinshenker, PhD (Emory) using in vivo microdialysis and behavior to study the noradrenergic-galanin system in anxiety and addiction. I then went on to complete a postdoctoral fellowship with Patricia Jensen, PhD at the NIH, where I used the latest advances in intersectional genetics, optical imaging, and electrophysiology to uncover a role for locus coeruleus (LC) norepinephrine neurons in regulating anxiety and feeding. I received an NIH K99/R00 Pathway to Independence Award from NIDDK and joined the Department of Physiology & Neurobiology at UCONN in 2021. My research group is focused on defining central noradrenergic circuits that regulate behavioral state. We are interested in noradrenergic circuits because norepinephrine (NE) signaling is known to be disrupted in neuropsychiatric and metabolic disorders. A significant obstacle to developing circuit-level insights of disease susceptibility will require better understanding of the distinct cell types and signaling mechanisms that underlie adaptive and maladaptive behavior. https://www.sciolinolab.org/natale-sciolino-publications daily 0.75 2022-08-18 https://www.sciolinolab.org/natale-sciolino-cv daily 0.75 2022-12-01 https://www.sciolinolab.org/malak-nechnach daily 0.75 2024-05-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/17f0150b-aa43-4e65-b09f-3d4b5f4b5479/malak-website.png Malak Nechnach - Malak Nechnach Undergraduate Student Malak began her undergraduate years at Uconn in 2022 and is currently majoring in physiology and neurobiology and minoring in psychology. She joined the Sciolino Lab because of her interests in neuroscience and psychology. Malak plans to apply the experience gained in the lab to pursue a PhD in behavioral neuroscience. In her free time, she enjoys playing instruments such as the piano and the drums, as well as various outdoor activities such as playing soccer, hiking and scuba diving. Email: malak.nechnach@uconn.edu https://www.sciolinolab.org/dei daily 0.75 2025-04-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1599586538072-X3F1ZHMDO16YAO0Z4GH2/UConn-Inclusive-final_dog-white.jpg https://www.sciolinolab.org/paula-to daily 0.75 2025-02-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/0c055616-2994-4a51-8a91-de64240b00b1/Paula+To.jpg Paula To - Trang (Paula) To PhD Student Paula recently graduated from William Jewell College, a tiny liberal art school. She is very excited to join a big community at UConn this Fall 2024 to learn more about the brain. With the background in Molecular Biology, she is hoping to explore the brain mechanisms using this approach. Paula is scared but very eager to learn coding. Email: trang.to@uconn.edu https://www.sciolinolab.org/gallery daily 0.75 2022-08-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/28db9219-ea11-4b03-9ee2-33f7abf99096/3C0A2040.jpg Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/c8aeed83-6bca-4770-8e33-29947f711af8/3C0A1994.jpg Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/4d2de9d6-7e5a-42ad-ad0b-2e810e9327d9/will+poster.jpg Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/bac1cb82-b8b0-4b24-9d28-cb592050a896/IMG_7692+for+webistefor+website.jpg Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/7ca4dd9c-5710-4605-adf2-ebdca63ae089/3C0A1955.jpg Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/e2b0cc80-9088-4243-b0f5-f18dd678d265/3C0A2018.jpg Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/0439e8fd-5d06-49a4-b868-6eaa4241ccfd/3C0A2043.jpg Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/3cb3b37a-df7e-47e2-8b51-c99abf275b7b/3C0A2053.jpg Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/e44bc7f2-2cd6-463e-8053-1c36977dd6fc/3C0A2051.jpg Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/49a26326-af0b-44e6-aa96-a78faf04289c/3C0A1950.jpg Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1661551799715-OP6H9ML1QYXAAZXMN0MP/3C0A2015.jpg Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/eba75cd3-3062-49ce-8705-9fa56f328d51/IMG_7806.png Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/4c90cdec-22b4-46d2-9543-ae98b40f8f52/3C0A1918.jpg Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/80fbe182-d703-49b2-adf6-21a1604b9902/3C0A2034.jpg Gallery https://www.sciolinolab.org/former-members daily 0.75 2025-06-06 https://www.sciolinolab.org/chris-engborg daily 0.75 2024-01-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/cacdf4f4-46dc-40b9-b33c-87276a6936e5/Engborg_210923a029.jpg Chris Engborg - Christopher Engborg Master’s Student Email: christopher.b.engborg@uconn.edu https://www.sciolinolab.org/home daily 1.0 2025-02-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/7a29df89-c782-4da8-b7df-268eb047be52/T035_10N_TH_crop_BC.jpg Home - Mission Our research focuses on understanding how the central norepinephrine system regulates motivated behaviors, including both the pursuit of reward and the avoidance of danger. Our ultimate goal is uncover the neuromodulatory basis of neuropsychiatric and metabolic disorders. We aim to: 1. Identify the norepinephrine (NE) neurons, pathways and receptors involved in motivated behaviors, such as feeding and responses to threat. 2. Determine the influence of NE activity on the neural integration of internal states (e.g., hunger, stress, arousal) and external stimuli (e.g., taste) to guide and shape motivated behaviors. 3. Discover basic neural mechanisms involved in the biology and treatment of feeding and psychiatric disorders https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/77f4a10f-653b-49af-a2f2-b43a736bbbf9/3C0A1990.jpg Home - Approach We use the latest advances in circuit neuroscience to understand the basis of motivated behavior, including: Intersectional methods to express transgenes in specific cell types for anatomical & functional studies Genetically encoded fluorescent indicators and sensors to monitor neuronal activity Optogenetic & chemogenetic effectors to manipulate neuronal activity State-of-the-art behavioral tracking systems https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1f5d7df5-8e08-43de-b133-102baf2785e9/dept+logo.jpg Home - We are located in the Department of Physiology & Neurobiology at the University of Connecticut on the beautiful Storrs Campus. https://www.sciolinolab.org/manaswini-pujar daily 0.75 2024-01-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/774079e4-e71e-4083-879f-09f039d656c1/Manaswini.jpg Manaswini Pujar - Manaswini Pujar Undergraduate Researcher Manaswini started at UConn in 2021, majoring in Physiology and Neurobiology with a minor in Computer Science. She joined the lab because of her interest in neurological processes and behavioral studies and disorders. In the future, she plans on conducting further related research and hopes to pursue her passion in understanding the brain and its pathologies in graduate school. Outside of the lab, she is involved in several organizations across campus and loves art, outdoor activities such as running, skiing and hiking, and listening to music. Email: manaswini.pujar@uconn.edu https://www.sciolinolab.org/our-team daily 0.75 2025-08-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/107d6ad4-b9dd-48c3-93d1-129ccd3662c7/malak-website.jpg Our Team - Make it stand out Malak Nechnach Undergraduate student https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/57dad02f-9194-4af2-a2c8-0403b09befa5/Abigail+McFarland.jpg Our Team - Make it stand out Abigail McFarland Undergraduate student https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1906906e-ba5c-43e0-a23c-923c549bf53a/Leon+Novak.jpg Our Team - Make it stand out Leon Novak Master’s Student https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/e7be86d6-1978-4a2f-ba5a-9c8ad61d3374/Photo_Natale+Sciolino.jpg Our Team Natale Sciolino, PhD Assistant Professor of Physiology and Neurobiology https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/b521eb15-a930-4874-ac1d-616cf6044970/Image-removebg-preview.jpg Our Team - Make it stand out Qichen (Will) Fan PhD student https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/b6e69e2e-9b28-4c9b-b7dd-ec8e8d76e453/559EF902-C19F-4681-B207-22F48A78EEF5_1_105_c.jpg Our Team - Make it stand out Trang (Paula) To PhD Student https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/d374f96e-55a5-4b65-b571-9d39c0c37b1e/IMG_5222-removebg-preview-1.jpg Our Team - Make it stand out Nikolas Supczak Undergraduate student https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/c07f48d3-8432-476e-838e-1cd42adeef6f/Screen+Shot+2023-01-31+at+12.37.28+PM.png Our Team - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/263890fd-c5ad-43ce-8ad7-27db983aa560/IMG_5372-removebg-preview.jpg Our Team - Make it stand out Julia Chernyak Undergraduate student https://www.sciolinolab.org/anthony-esposito daily 0.75 2024-05-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/3e28c702-9118-4767-9cb0-abf5daf71a84/anthony+website.jpg Anthony Esposito - Anthony Esposito Research Technician Anthony started at UConn in 2021, majoring in Animal Science. He joined the Sciolino Lab to further his interest in reproductive genetics and the understanding of how addiction affects the brain. When not in the lab you can often find him visiting the cows on campus, skiing, hiking, listening to music, and spending quality time with friends and family. Anthony is planning on using his experience and knowledge from the lab to help him figure out his future and the path he wants to continue down. Email: anthony.a.esposito@uconn.edu https://www.sciolinolab.org/our-team-1 daily 0.75 2023-06-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/8a2cbdb9-3d29-4392-bc85-d2d06a663bab/IMG_9513.jpg Our Team (Practice) - Make it stand out Felise Bressler 2023 REU SUMMER STUDENT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1661541071909-I2C3042N4CN7H0XERLUO/3C0A2079.jpg Our Team (Practice) - Make it stand out Will (Qichen) Fan PHD STUDENT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/5310bb6a-4c2d-4693-a703-645a6f09c0de/thumbnail_image003.jpg Our Team (Practice) - Make it stand out Anthony Esposito UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCHER https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/0dc0aebb-4993-4d8c-b28b-ef2e056fb69d/Untitled%2Bdocument%2B%25284%2529.jpg Our Team (Practice) - Make it stand out Carson Gaines UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCHER https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/d27d15c4-a139-45f3-8a1f-c29802be248d/IMG_0612x.jpg Our Team (Practice) - Make it stand out Victoria Doocy LAB TECHNICIAN https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/774079e4-e71e-4083-879f-09f039d656c1/Manaswini.jpg Our Team (Practice) - Make it stand out Manaswini Pujar UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCHER https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/fe975966-14e6-438e-9ef0-3990dd80eab6/Unknown.jpg Our Team (Practice) - Make it stand out Candace Banasiewicz RESEARCH TECHNICIAN https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/c07f48d3-8432-476e-838e-1cd42adeef6f/Screen+Shot+2023-01-31+at+12.37.28+PM.png Our Team (Practice) - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/3a6c106d-07e3-4e89-bdf1-b3059fdb7be6/ODP1.jpg Our Team (Practice) - Make it stand out Olivia DePasquale LAB MANAGER https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/8c2bcfa9-b5f4-4c7f-bd30-29b1793df599/Jasmine.jpg Our Team (Practice) - Make it stand out Jasmine Ranieri UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCHER https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/3b0894c6-3e62-4dc1-8e68-58ae00ba3269/3C0A1390.jpg Our Team (Practice) Natale Sciolino, PhD ASSISTANT PROFESSOR | DEPARTMENT OF PHYSIOLOGY & NEUROBIOLOGY FACULTY AFFILIATE | INSTITUTE OF SYSTEMS GENOMICS| DEPARTMENT OF BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING| CT INSTITUTE FOR THE BRAIN AND COGNITIVE SCIENCES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/835b9292-57d1-4c13-8ff3-66d6ba83c5fa/Engborg_210923a029.jpg Our Team (Practice) - Make it stand out Chris Engborg MS STUDENT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/51f191c1-f2c0-46da-85b5-ee52bcc71c9e/IMG_3186.jpg Our Team (Practice) - Make it stand out Shanze Khan UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCHER https://www.sciolinolab.org/our-team-2 daily 0.75 2023-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/fe975966-14e6-438e-9ef0-3990dd80eab6/Unknown.jpg Our Team (Copy) - Make it stand out Candace Banasiewicz RESEARCH TECHNICIAN https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/835b9292-57d1-4c13-8ff3-66d6ba83c5fa/Engborg_210923a029.jpg Our Team (Copy) - Make it stand out Chris Engborg MS STUDENT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/774079e4-e71e-4083-879f-09f039d656c1/Manaswini.jpg Our Team (Copy) - Make it stand out Manaswini Pujar UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCHER https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/8c2bcfa9-b5f4-4c7f-bd30-29b1793df599/Jasmine.jpg Our Team (Copy) - Make it stand out Jasmine Ranieri UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCHER https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/51f191c1-f2c0-46da-85b5-ee52bcc71c9e/IMG_3186.jpg Our Team (Copy) - Make it stand out Shanze Khan UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCHER https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/3b0894c6-3e62-4dc1-8e68-58ae00ba3269/3C0A1390.jpg Our Team (Copy) Natale Sciolino, PhD ASSISTANT PROFESSOR | DEPARTMENT OF PHYSIOLOGY & NEUROBIOLOGY FACULTY AFFILIATE | INSTITUTE OF SYSTEMS GENOMICS| DEPARTMENT OF BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING| CT INSTITUTE FOR THE BRAIN AND COGNITIVE SCIENCES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/0dc0aebb-4993-4d8c-b28b-ef2e056fb69d/Untitled%2Bdocument%2B%25284%2529.jpg Our Team (Copy) - Make it stand out Carson Gaines UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCHER https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/c07f48d3-8432-476e-838e-1cd42adeef6f/Screen+Shot+2023-01-31+at+12.37.28+PM.png Our Team (Copy) - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/5310bb6a-4c2d-4693-a703-645a6f09c0de/thumbnail_image003.jpg Our Team (Copy) - Make it stand out Anthony Esposito UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCHER https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/d27d15c4-a139-45f3-8a1f-c29802be248d/IMG_0612x.jpg Our Team (Copy) - Make it stand out Victoria Doocy LAB MANAGER https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/8a2cbdb9-3d29-4392-bc85-d2d06a663bab/IMG_9513.jpg Our Team (Copy) - Make it stand out Felise Bressler 2023 REU SUMMER STUDENT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1661541071909-I2C3042N4CN7H0XERLUO/3C0A2079.jpg Our Team (Copy) - Make it stand out Will (Qichen) Fan PHD STUDENT https://www.sciolinolab.org/nikolas-supczak daily 0.75 2024-12-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/bfd55b03-a188-4e95-8d40-fe5b334e6505/IMG_5222-removebg-preview-1.jpg Nikolas Supczak - Nikolas Supczak Undergraduate student Nikolas started as an undergraduate at UConn in 2023 with a major in Physiology and Neurobiology and a minor in Psychology. He joined the lab due to the connections between his major and minor and the applications in the lab, in addition to a general interest in the studies of the lab. Nik plans to attend medical school after his undergraduate time, unsure about a current focus at this moment. In his free time, Nik enjoys spending time outdoors, including playing sports, running, and hiking, as well as listening to music and hanging out with family and friends. Email: nikolas.supczak@uconn.edu https://www.sciolinolab.org/julia-chernyak daily 0.75 2025-01-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/ec0b2568-1df5-463b-84f3-4fb8f9a4b784/IMG_5372-removebg-preview.jpg Julia Chernyak - Julia Chernyak Undergraduate Student Julia Chernyak started at UConn in 2024 majoring in Physiology and Neurobiology on the pre-med track at UConn. She joined the Sciolino Lab to gain hands-on research experience and further her interest in neural mechanisms. Julia is excited to support the lab’s work and build towards her future goals, including pursuing a career in medicine. Outside of the lab, Julia is involved in various student organization on campus, and enjoys working out at the student recreation center, spending time in nature, listening to music, and hanging out with friends and family. Email: julia.chernyak@uconn.edu https://www.sciolinolab.org/abigail-mcfarland daily 0.75 2024-12-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/57dad02f-9194-4af2-a2c8-0403b09befa5/Abigail+McFarland.jpg Abigail McFarland - Abigail McFarland Undergraduate Student Abigail started at UConn in 2023, majoring in Physiology and Neurobiology with a minor in Anthropology of Global Health on the Pre-Med Track. She joined the lab because of her passion for neuroscience and interest in understanding neurologic behavioral processes. In the future, Abigail plans on attending medical school and eventually pursuing a career as a neurosurgeon. In her free time, she enjoys reading, going to the gym, playing basketball, and spending time with friends and family. Email: abigail.mcfarland@uconn.edu https://www.sciolinolab.org/leon-novak daily 0.75 2024-12-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/1906906e-ba5c-43e0-a23c-923c549bf53a/Leon+NOvak.jpg Leon Novak - Leon Novak Lab manager Leon joined the Sciolino Lab in October 2024, coming as a recent graduate in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Boston University. He has a vested interest in the molecular mechanisms and hormonal pathways underlying reward-seeking behaviors, especially as it relates to psychiatric conditions. With ambitions of entering the medical field, outside of the lab, Leon enjoys reading, swimming, wandering through the forest, and talking extensively about coffee. Email: leon.novak@uconn.edu https://www.sciolinolab.org/overview daily 0.75 2024-09-16 https://www.sciolinolab.org/support daily 0.75 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/b399d588-3f89-44e6-bd6b-b802e32fbd3b/BRF%2B2021%2BNew%2BLogo.jpg Support - The overarching goal of our Brain Research Foundation Seed Grant is to understand the influence of locus coeruleus (LC) neurons on a central taste system, the brain area known as the gustatory cortex (GC). Towards this goal, we have found that stimulating the LC-GC pathway alters the perception of taste, such that animals find an unfamiliar taste less repulsive. The first aim of this project is to examine if stimulating the LC-GC pathway affects other taste-guided behaviors, such as learning to avoid food that induce sickness. This aim will be achieved using an optogenetic technique that allows us to precisely control the timing and location of neural stimulation, empowering us to make a causal connection between how feeding is influenced by natural LC activity. Our second aim is to examine the dynamic changes that take place in GC neurons as a function of stimulating LC projections. Here, we will use brain- implantable miniature microscopes to view the activity of individual GC neurons in behaving mice and will determine how their response to taste changes as a function of stimulating the LC-GC pathway. Taken together, our work will shed light on a previously unrecognized neuromodulatory circuit that shapes how we perceive the world and what we choose to eat. We received a Brain Research foundation Seed Grant to study locus coeruleus pathways in taste processing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/9d50129e-a040-4cab-bc06-259793438790/niddk+logo.gif Support - The goal of our proposed NIH K99/R00 research is to dissect the role of the locus coeruleus (LC) to lateral hypothalamus (LHA) noradrenergic circuit in feeding and dietary obesity. The central hypothesis is that increased LC-NE activity will suppress feeding through inhibition of LHA hunger-promoting neurons. We will carry out three Specific Aims: (1) Identify the natural population activity patterns of LC-NE neurons during feeding behaviors; (2) Identify the hypothalamic cell types involved in LC-NE suppression of feeding; and (3) Determine the involvement of the LC-LHA noradrenergic circuit in the physiology and treatment of obesity. These aims will be accomplished using state-of-the-art technologies, including wireless fiber photometry to visualize neuronal activity, optogenetics tools to manipulate neural activity, and devices for high-resolution measurements of feeding behavior. The ultimate goal of this research is to inform the development of novel treatment strategies that activate specific LC-NE circuits to suppress feeding without incurring the off-target side effects observed using strategies that affect the entire noradrenergic system. We received an R00 grant from NIDDK to study locus coeruleus norepinphrine circuits in feeding. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/6b7ae5f4-389e-417c-b4ca-e2f9787c47c8/ibacs-stacked-black.png Support - The overarching goal of our Institute for the Brain and Cognitive Sciences Seed Grant is to understand the role of endogenous cannabinoid (eCB) signaling in the regulation of locus coeruleus activity and stress-induced responses. It is well known that stress (e.g., predator threat) activates norepinephrine-containing neurons in the locus coeruleus (LC) to promote anxiety-like responses. However, the molecular mechanisms that terminate the effects of stress are unclear. While LC-NE neurons express the inhibitory Gi-coupled cannabinoid 1-type receptor (CB1R), it remains unknown if CB1R and/or the release of endogenous cannabinoids (eCB) in the LC region can play a role in stress regulation. Our overarching hypothesis is that threat activates LC-NE neurons and stimulates eCB release, thus activating CB1R on stress-responsive neurons to attenuate behavioral and physiological features of the acute stress response. First, we will use a new eCB fluorescent biosensor and fiber photometry to determine the natural eCB dynamics in the LC region during acute stress in awake, behaving mice. Second, we will use slice electrophysiology and pharmacology to determine if activation of CB1R will blunt stress-related LC excitability. Third, we will use a viral genetic strategy for selective elimination of CB1R in LC-NE neurons to determine if loss of CB1R will exacerbate stress-induced anxiety-like behavior and physiological responses. Taken together, our work will take a multidisciplinary approach to uncover how eCB signaling influences a prominent, yet understudied neuromodulatory system and its regulation of stress. PI, Natale Sciolino. Co-PIs: Daniel Mulkey, John Salamone, Melissa Boucher. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/0ca1e84f-5ec5-4300-8078-8d11be00f965/claslogo-vert-white.jpg Support - We received a CLAS Shared Equipment Grant to purchase two Inscopix Miniscope systems: 1) Inscopix nVue miniature microscopes that permit single-cell, single-photon imaging of a variety of activity-dependent brain signals, including calcium activity, neurotransmitter release, and voltage dynamics, coupled with vascular dilation, in deep previously inaccessible regions of the brain in behaving rodents, and 2) nVoKE for single-cell imaging and optogenetics. Obtaining this imaging technology would elevate the impact of our research by providing researchers with tools to study interactions between individual neurons in vivo, and to directly connect these neural activities with vascular dynamics as well as to functional behavioral outcomes in rodents. In vivo miniscopes therefore holds the promise of significantly advancing our understanding of brain circuits, cellular mechanisms, and neuroethology. PI: Natale Sciolino, and Co-PIs include Alex Jackson and Anasstasios Tzingounis. Sciolino, PI received a shared equipment grant from UConn CLAS to purchase two Inscopix miniature microscopes for recording single-cell activity in brains of behaving mice. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/6f99cd86-aad9-4516-ab48-31ee36be2085/Brain%2Band%2BBehavior.jpg Support - The goal of our Brain and Behavior Research Foundation NARSAD Young Investigator Grant is to determine whether heightened norepinephrine signaling in the locus coeruleus (LC) to lateral hypothalamus (LHA) pathway underlies the increase in negative affective behaviors associated with obesity. In Aim 1, we will use fiber photometry in a mouse model of obesity to investigate whether exposure to high fat diet increases both NE release in the LHA and negative affective behaviors. In Aim 2, we will employ optogenetics to explore whether inhibiting the LC-LHA pathway can mitigate diet-induced negative affective behaviors. Through these studies, we will elucidate the function of NE circuits in regulating emotion, offering valuable insights into the development of new treatments for obesity-induced anxiety. Such discoveries have the potential to substantially influence public health strategies targeting the rising burden of mental health problems linked to obesity. https://www.sciolinolab.org/press daily 0.75 2025-06-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/0933bb8e-d811-40f0-bfe3-efdb7c080b48/Sciolino_250501a028.jpg Press https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f413b73ec8a536cf1c48177/003e12cf-0774-4d8c-ba27-39521db94126/Sciolino+SnapshotENEURO0535232024.jpg Press