The Bloss Lab
The Bloss Lab leverages high resolution imaging strategies with activity and genetic perturbations of specific neurons in behaving mice to define how the synaptic architecture of neural circuits supports goal-directed behavior.
Principal Investigator
Location
Topics
The brain is the most powerful computational device known. How do connections between brain cell support these functions? Our past work has demonstrated that genetically or anatomically defined neurons are connected in remarkably precise ways, promoting certain computations over others. The overarching goal of present work in the lab is to discover how these wiring patterns are shaped by experience or disease, and how they relate to learning and memory function. We use advanced imaging techniques to define synaptic connectivity between specific cell types. We also use viral, genetic, and chemogenetic strategies to relate activity patterns or molecules in specific cell types to the behavioral performance of mice in goal-directed tasks. Collaborations within and outside The Jackson Laboratory will allow us to leverage our neuroanatomical and genetic strengths with additional techniques to identify the broader principles by which cognition emerges from underlying brain circuitry.
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Research HighlightNovember 10, 2022Arming the immune system against SARS-Cov-2
Derya Unutmaz and his team have capitalized on cancer immunotherapy techniques to develop potential variant-proof treatments for COVID-19. -
Research HighlightSeptember 28, 2022Tipping the scale toward favorable outcomes in cancer and beyond
Jennifer Trowbridge and her team reveal the molecular signaling pathway most associated with clonal hematopoiesis and how blocking a specific cell-surface receptor in the pathway can tip the balance toward positive health outcomes. -
Featured ArticleSeptember 06, 2022Connecting life-long dietary restrictions and loss of cognitive function
Andrew Ouellette is helping to discover new connections between life-long dietary restriction and the loss of cognitive function. -
Press ReleaseAugust 31, 2022Peter Robinson to serve on NHGRI Advisory Council
Peter Robinson of the Jackson Laboratory was sworn in to the National Human Genome Research Institute’s (NHGRI) Advisory Council on Aug 19, 2022.
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Research HighlightOctober 19, 2022Examining the exquisite arrangement of stereocilia in the ear
New study examines the molecular machinery that makes the precise construction and arrangement of stereocillia in the ear possible. -
Featured ArticleSeptember 15, 2022JAX undertakes nationwide study to evaluate impact of genomic tumor boards on cancer care
The Jackson Laboratory announced today that it will take its cornerstone genomic tumor board program to oncologists across the nation as part of a SWOG Cancer Research Network study, in collaboration with Columbia University. -
Featured ArticleSeptember 06, 2022Developing machine learning and deep learning at JAX
Matthew Gerring is applying the machine learning and deep learning revolution at JAX. -
Research HighlightJuly 21, 2022Investigating endometriosis, cell by cell
Many women worldwide are affected by endometriosis, though there has been relatively little research into causes or possible therapies. Elise Courtois, associate director of the Single Cell Biology group at The Jackson Laboratory, is a leading proponent for increasing awareness of and funding for endometriosis.