Marta E. Soden

Multidimensional control of ingestive behavior by lateral hypothalamic neurotensin neurons

This study identifies the role of lateral hypothalamic neurotensin neurons in regulating ingestive behavior by encoding licking rate and influencing arousal, thermoregulation, and metabolism.

Periaqueductal gray neurotensin neurons drive simultaneousthreat response and reinforcement

The paper identifies PAG-Nts neurons that co-release glutamate and neurotensin to activate dopamine neurons, driving both threat responses and operant reinforcement behaviors.

Opto-seq reveals input-specific immediate early gene induction in ventral tegmental area cell types

The paper uses optogenetic stimulation and single-nucleus RNA sequencing to identify input-specific activation patterns of VTA neuronal subpopulations and their immediate early gene programs.

Kappa Opioid Receptors in Mesolimbic Terminals Mediate Escalation of Cocaine Consumption

This study shows that KOR on VTA neurons, not NAcC neurons, prevents cocaine escalation by blocking the transition to SUD-like behavior.

Temporal scaling of dopamine neuron firing and dopamine release by distinct ion channels shape behavior

This study shows that Kv4.3 and BKCa1.1 ion channels regulate dopamine neuron firing and release on different time scales, influencing distinct phases of reinforced behavior in mice.

A circuit mechanism for the coordinated actions of opposing neuropeptide and neurotransmitter signals

The paper demonstrates how stimulatory neuropeptide and inhibitory neurotransmitter signals work together in a neural circuit to enhance dopamine neuron activation and optimize behavioral reinforcement.

Cocaine Seeking And Taking Are Oppositely Regulated By Dopamine

The paper shows that cocaine seeking and taking are oppositely regulated by dopamine in rats, with cue-evoked dopamine changes linked to relapse and escalated consumption.

Netrin-1 regulates the balance of glutamatergic connectivity in the adult ventral tegmental area

This study shows that netrin-1 maintains excitatory connectivity in the adult ventral tegmental area, with imbalances affecting behavior.

A midbrain dynorphin circuit promotes threat generalization

The paper identifies KOR/Dyn signaling in the midbrain as promoting threat generalization, showing an inverted U relationship between threat intensity and discrimination.