LIN Seminar: “Uncovering Neural Circuits for Social Bonding” by Sarah Woolley (McGill University)
November 2, 2023
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Location
SELE 4289
Calendar
Download iCal FilePlease join us on November 2, 2023 for a LIN Seminar featuring Dr. Sarah Woolley (McGill University)
Host: Angie Salles
Abstract: Vocal communication is a key component of social interactions across a diversity of species, including humans. My lab studies songbirds, vocal communicators that learn their songs from a parent or tutor, then, after a period of practice, use those songs to communicate. In the species we study, the zebra finch, only males learn to sing. However, females pay close attention to male songs and use them in individual recognition, mate choice, and the formation of long-lasting social bonds. We are interested in the dynamics of social interactions among birds, how different experiences, either during development or in adulthood, affect those interactions, and how neural circuits for learning and perceiving song shape are shaped by those social interactions and experience. I will discuss our most recent data using fMRI, pharmacology, and gene expression to uncover the circuits important for recognition and the formation of social bonds as well as how dopamine release within these circuits may promote recognition and social preference.
Date posted
Feb 21, 2023
Date updated
Sep 22, 2023