Dopamine signalling and GPR6

We study dopamine signalling and the role of the G protein-coupled receptor 6 (GPR6) in striatal function and behaviour. Genetic and pharmacological approaches are combined with PET, autoradiography and molecular analyses to investigate the effects of GPR6 modulation. In parallel, we develop and validate tools to quantify GPR6 binding and assess whether drugs engage the receptor, laying the groundwork for future imaging of GPR6 in the living brain.

Synaptic imaging

We use imaging of synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A (SV2A), including PET with [¹¹C]UCB-J, to investigate changes associated with disease and treatment. By combining imaging with analyses of brain tissue, we examine how changes in SV2A binding relate to synaptic biology and synaptic density.

Brain stimulation and neuromodulation

We use PET to investigate how interventions such as deep brain stimulation and vagus nerve stimulation affect brain function and molecular processes. Our aim is to identify imaging measures that help explain how these treatments act and connect findings from animal models with clinical research.

Neuroinflammation and glial responses

We develop and apply imaging approaches to study neuroinflammation and glial responses in models of neurological and psychiatric disease. Our work includes the molecular targets TSPO and CSF1R. We combine imaging and autoradiography with molecular and histological analyses to understand the cellular processes underlying these signals and their responses to disease and treatment.

Imaging methods and biological validation

Our platform brings together PET, quantitative autoradiography, behavioural testing and analyses of brain tissue. Collaborations in radiochemistry, MRI, molecular biology, histology and neurosurgery support tracer development and validation, experimental interventions and interpretation of imaging findings. This integrated approach connects molecular measurements with brain function, behaviour and treatment effects.