Brain circuits of
emotional states
How does the brain shape our emotions? Why do some individuals thrive under stress while others struggle with anxiety or depression?
At the Calvigioni Lab, we explore the intricate neural mechanisms that govern emotional behavioral states and mental resilience. By decoding how specific brain circuits process positive and negative experiences, we strive to answer fundamental questions about adaptive emotional behaviors.
Our research bridges systems neuroscience, molecular biology, and endocrinology to shed light on how hormones, neural activity, and life experiences interact to shape mental health across the lifespan.
Whether you are a future team member eager to explore the complexities of the brain or a funding partner seeking to support transformative research, join us in pushing the boundaries of knowledge and transforming mental health science.
Key focus areas
Neuronal basis of emotional states
Understanding how the brain encodes emotional experiences is at the core of our research. We investigate how specific neural circuits process positive and negative stimuli, focusing on the cellular states and activity patterns that shape emotional behaviors. By mapping, monitoring, and manipulating these circuits in real time during behavior, we aim to reveal how maladaptive encoding of emotional valence contributes to pathological behaviors. Through this, we seek to uncover the mechanisms underlying resilience and vulnerability to neuropsychiatric disorders.
Hormonal modulation of circuits and behaviours
Hormones exert profound regulatory control over neural dynamics. Our research seeks to dissect the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which hormones modulate circuit function, orchestrating motivational states and conferring susceptibility to anxiety-like phenotypes.
Critical windows of networks assembly
Why are certain stages of life marked by heightened vulnerability to stress? Childhood and adolescence are critical periods of brain development, characterized by heightened plasticity and dynamic hormonal fluctuations. Our research investigates how age and sex interact with environmental experiences to shape brain circuit assembly, network-level encoding, and behavior.
Multimodal approach
Critical windows of vulnerability and intervention
In vivo functional interrogation
Neuronal activity in behaving mice
Cell types
Signalling and -omics
Brain wide neuroanatomy
Network assembly and adaptation
Why this matters
Understanding how the brain processes emotions and responds to stressful experiences is essential for tackling some of the most pressing challenges in mental health.
Anxiety and depression are among the leading causes of disability worldwide, yet our ability to prevent and treat these conditions remains limited. The Calvigioni Lab aims to bridge this gap by uncovering the neural mechanisms that shape emotional behaviors and vulnerability.
Beyond advancing science, we are committed to training the next generation of neuroscientists. Through mentorship, collaboration, and open communication, we aim to equip young researchers with the tools and vision to push the boundaries of neuroscience.
Funding & support
We are deeply grateful for the commitment of our funding partners.
Our research is made possible through the generous support of leading funding agencies and donors who share our vision of advancing fundamental neuroscience and mental health research. Their contributions enable us to push the boundaries of knowledge, develop innovative methodologies, and drive discoveries that deepen our understanding of behavior and neuropsychiatric disorders.
If you are interested in contributing to our mission and making a lasting impact on neuroscience and mental health research, please get in touch to explore ways to support our work through donations or partnerships.
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