Valerie Michael

Nested circuits mediate the decision to vocalize

The paper identifies a nested neural circuit in mice that integrates social and environmental signals to regulate vocalization decisions.

Circuit and synaptic organization of forebrain-to-midbrain pathways that promote and suppress vocalization

The paper identifies two forebrain inhibitory neuron populations that trigger or suppress vocalization by modulating PAG-USV neurons through distinct synaptic mechanisms.

Unique spatial integration in mouse primary visual cortex and higher visual areas

The paper examines spatial integration in mouse visual cortex and higher areas, finding that PM has larger receptive fields and less surround suppression, suggesting distinct functional roles.

Identification of midbrain neurons essential for vocal communication

The paper identifies a specific subset of midbrain PAG neurons in male mice essential for producing ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) and shows their role in vocal communication.