The Yongsoo Kim Lab seeks to deepen our understanding of the cellular architecture and functional organization of the brain. Using mice as our primary mammalian model, we integrate high-resolution 3D brain mapping techniques, digital atlasing, neuroinformatics tools, and advanced experimental models to study brain cell types (e.g., neuronal and glial subtypes) and neurovascular contributions to brain health. Our goal is to address critical questions in neurodevelopment, aging, and pathology. Specifically, we investigate brain cellular changes across normal life span and its changes in neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., autism) and neurodegenerative disorders (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease). 

1. Mapping Brain Cellular Architecture and Its Changes in Disorders: We study how distinct brain cell types emerge during development and change during aging, both in healthy and pathological states. Employing 3D mapping techniques and computational tools, we analyze target cell types across the entire mouse brain. Our primary focus includes autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and Alzheimer’s disease, exploring their cellular underpinnings.
2. Investigating the Oxytocin System and Dorsal Endopiriform Nucleus (EPd): Oxytocin is a critical neuropeptide that regulates social behavior and various physiological functions. Our previous work identified strong oxytocin receptor expression in the EPd, a novel region of interest. We study the anatomical organization and functional roles of EPd circuits using viral tools, cell-specific transgenic mice, in vivo neural activity recording, and behavioral tracking systems.
3. Developing Digital 3D Atlases and Neuroinformatics Tools: We are building a series of digital atlases, such as the developmental common coordinate framework (DevCCF), and neuroinformatics tools like flatmaps. These innovations enable precise mapping and visualization of brain cell types from high-resolution 3D datasets.

Through these efforts, the Kim Lab is pioneering the integration of advanced methodologies to unravel the complexities of the brain and its changes across lifespan and disease.