Dr. Qing-Song Liu's lab focuses on understanding how a protein called mTOR affects the behavior and function of dopamine neurons in the brain. They investigate how changes in mTOR signaling can lead to problems like hyperactivity and impulsivity, which are seen in disorders such as ADHD. Using specially designed mice, the lab seeks to uncover the cellular and circuit-level mechanisms behind these behaviors, aiming to inform future treatments for related psychiatric conditions.

Dr. Cecilia J. Hillard's lab at the Medical College of Wisconsin focuses on developing new medications to treat anxiety disorders. The lab is particularly interested in a protein called sterol carrier protein-2 (SCP-2), which is involved in the regulation of brain chemicals that influence anxiety. By creating small-molecule inhibitors of SCP-2, the team aims to enhance certain receptor signals in the brain, offering the potential for safer and more effective anxiety treatments.