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Dr.
Mark Miller
The broad goal of our research is to understand neuronal
circuits underlying the generation and organization of complex
behavior patterns. We use marine molluscs (e.g. Aplysia
californica and Bursatella leachii ) as model
systems for these studies, because the nervous systems of these
species contain large identified neurons. The role of certain
modulatory substances (biogenic amines and neuropeptides) in
the regulation of these neural circuits is of particular interest.
Our current focus is on the neural control of motivated behavior
patterns related to reproduction and feeding. The methods utilized
include field observation, electrophysiological analysis of
neural circuits, and the cellular localization of neuromodulators
using immunohistochemistry.
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