Our Research
The molecular and cellular mechanism underlying breathing, and how it goes awry in diseases is largely unknown. By molecular and genetic dissection of the breathing-control circuitry, our laboratory studies the function of neural populations that control breathing rhythms and behaviors (such as sighing), and the pathophysiology of diseases with breathing abnormality.
Peng Li, Ph.D.
Research in mice sheds light on how brain senses, responds to low oxygen levels
New research from the lab of Peng Li, Ph.D., has uncovered the neural circuit in mice that activates sighing in response to low oxygen levels.
New tool improves scientists’ ability to manipulate cellular activities
A collaboration between two LSI labs has resulted in a new research tool for manipulating when and where cellular functions are activated, using the power of peptides.
Tracing the source of sighs: Researchers find new neurological circuit that controls ‘emotional sighs’ in mice
New research reveals that one group of neurons controls various types of sighing, but they receive their instructions from different areas of the brain depending on the reason for the sigh.
Publication Highlights
Yao Y, Chen K, Li X, Chen Z-F, Li P, Current Biology (2023)
Shen J, Geng L, Li X, Emery C, Kroning K, Shingles G, Lee K, Heyden M, Li P, Wang W, Nature Methods (2022)
Li P, Li S-B, Wang X, Phillips CD, Schwarz LA, Luo L, de Lecea L, Krasnow MA, Cell Reports (2020)
Li P, Yackle K, Current Biology (2017)
Li P, Janczewski WA, Yackle K, Kam K, Pagliardini S, Krasnow MA, Feldman JL, Nature (2016)