Research
Human systems neuroscience for neuromodulation and restoration.
HuNeu studies human brain circuits using intracranial recordings, functional imaging,
stimulation, and ultrasound to understand disease mechanisms and develop new therapies.
01
Cortical and subcortical contributions to speech production and language comprehension
We use stereoelectroencephalography (sEEG), deep brain stimulation (DBS), and related
human neurophysiology approaches to understand how cortical, thalamic, basal ganglia,
and cerebellar networks support speech production and language comprehension. This work
is designed to clarify mechanisms of speech pathology, including hypokinetic dysarthria,
vocal tremor, and spasmodic dysphonia, while building toward future brain-computer
interface trials focused on restoration of communication.
02
Thalamo-cortical physiology
We use sEEG and stimulation-based paradigms to study thalamo-cortical physiology in
humans. By examining how thalamic and cortical networks interact across disease states,
the lab aims to define circuit mechanisms relevant to epilepsy, pain, and consciousness,
and to identify how these circuits may be modulated therapeutically.
03
Trigeminal neuralgia and facial pain
We use functional imaging and complementary clinical and computational approaches to
better understand pain outcomes in trigeminal neuralgia and related facial pain
syndromes. This work focuses on phenotyping facial pain, identifying predictors of
treatment response, and improving how patients are selected and followed after
neurosurgical and neuromodulatory interventions.
04
Focused ultrasound
We study clinical outcomes after high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) and are
preparing low-intensity ultrasound studies for noninvasive neuromodulation. This program
examines how ultrasound can be used both as a precise lesioning therapy and as a platform
for future circuit-based modulation of human brain networks.
