Dr. Mesce's laboratory is studying how the neuroactive substance, dopamine, influences identifiable neural circuits to choreograph specific locomotor programs, and impacts decision-making processes. To address such issues, at the level of single neurons and their interconnections, we utilize experimentally-tractable invertebrate preparations. Such systems have also proven beneficial for the testing of cutting-edge technologies for brain modulation. Currently, we are designing, manufacturing, and testing novel micro devices for the dual recording of electrical and chemical signals. They are also examining the cellular mechanisms underlying ultrasound neuromodulation.