Talk Title:
Central neuromodulatory mechanisms of vagus nerve stimulation

Abstract:
The vagus nerves are important carriers of sensory information from the viscera to the CNS, and are key in supporting the food-seeking behavior that is necessary for survival. Moreover, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has been shown to reinforce learned behaviors, in part through upregulation of central noradrenergic and dopaminergic signaling pathways. Our lab is investigating the extent to which VNS-driven catecholaminergic signaling to cortical and subcortical motor circuits contributes to neural plasticity that underlies motivation, motor learning, and functional recovery after neural injuries such as stroke.

Followed by a reception in the atrium with appetizers and drinks

This talk is available to the MIT community via zoom webinar:
https://mit.zoom.us/j/92329213435