Herborg Lab

In Herborg Lab we investigate how neuromodulatory systems like dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin shape brain function and behavior, and how their dysfunction contributes to brain disorders and influence treatment responses

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EDUCATION

04-04-2014 Ph.D. Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen
18-11-2009 M.Sc. Human Biology, University of Copenhagen
01-02-2007 BA. Medicine, University of Copenhagen

ACADEMIC POSITIONS

Associate Professor: 2024-
Dept. of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen.

Assistant Professor: March 2019-2024
Dept. of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen.

Postdoc: 2014-March 2019
Dept. of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen.

PhD Student: 2010-2014
Dept. of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen.

We take a multidisciplinary approach to uncover how neuromodulatory systems shape brain function and behaviour in health and disease. To do this, we combine molecular and cellular tools with advanced imaging, genetic models, and behavioural neuroscience in awake, behaving animals.

Molecular biology, biochemistry, and in vitro pharmacology

We use classical molecular techniques such as mutagenesis, qPCR, and western blotting, as well as uptake and radioligand binding assays, to perform functional investigations in vitro and ex vivo.
Imaging

We use immunohistochemistry, confocal and wide-field fluorescence microscopy, and live-cell imaging of fluorescent ligands to visualise molecular, cellular, and circuit-level processes.

Genetic mouse models and behavioural profiling

We employ and develop genetic mouse models with high construct validity for neuropsychiatric and neurological disorders. A broad repertoire of behavioural paradigms — including assays of locomotion, cognition, and social interaction — enables us to link molecular and circuit dysfunction to disease-relevant phenotypes.

In vivo monitoring and manipulation of neuromodulation

We use fiber photometry and genetically encoded fluorescent sensors to monitor dopamine and serotonin in real time during behavior. In parallel, we combine pharmacological interventions and viral tools for neuromodulation to find mechanistic explanations for how these circuits shape behaviour and uncover neural mechanisms underlying therapeutic efficacy and side effects.