The spinal cord is an important centre involved in the control of movement. It contains the cells responsible for muscle contraction –motoneurons – along with functionally and genetically diverse populations of spinal interneurons, that confer flexibility to motor networks responsible for features of locomotor output such as right-left alternation during walking or muscle co-contraction for postural control. Disruption to the cellular mechanisms of motoneurons and motor circuits can result in severe functional abnormalities that could lead to disease. Using genetically-modified animal models, I employ a variety of electrophysiological, behavioural, genetic and imaging techniques to characterize dysfunctions in spinal circuits caused by diseases impairing motor function, such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. 

Recently I have gained interested in understanding the role of descending brain pathways in the modulation of spinal circuits, and how these can be accessed through different stimulation techniques such as transcranial magnetic stimulation and focused ultrasound.  

I am also working on the development of novel high-density electromyographic (HDEMG) approaches that would permit the non-invasive study of spinal circuits in human subjects.