Our first aim is to discover novel neurotransmitters or neuropeptides and to study their impact on mental disorders. To discover novel neurotransmitters or neuropeptides we apply reverse pharmacology. This approach uses orphan G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) as targets to discover their endogenous ligands, which are novel neurotransmitters.

The second phase of our studies consists in determining the biological significance of the novel neurotransmitters or neuropeptides. Toward this goal, we define their tissue distribution and neuronal pathways and develop related engineered mice strains. We then determine whether the novel neurotransmitters or neuropeptides affect animal behavior and which particular responses are modulated.

The third part of our studies is to screen for molecules (antagonists or agonists) that can be used in behavioral experiments in controlled conditions. In particular, we screen traditional medicines for active components.

The ultimate goal of our research is to determine whether the novel neurotransmitter or neuropeptide systems can be of use in managing mental disorders.