A. Vanessa Stempel

The paper maps synaptic projections in the mouse midbrain periaqueductal gray (PAG) to reveal modular output populations that extend the classical columnar framework for understanding behavior control.

This study identifies VGAT+ neurons in the dPAG that modulate escape behavior by tonically controlling excitatory neurons during threat response.

This paper identifies a cortico-collicular circuit in mice that encodes shelter direction and is essential for accurate orientation during escape.

The paper shows that escape decisions in mice are computed via a synaptic threshold mechanism involving mSC and dPAG neurons.

This study shows Shank2-/- mice have defective synapse maturation and enhanced synaptic plasticity, providing a mechanistic explanation for increased long-term potentiation.