Hox genes and the diversification of neuronal circuits

Jimena's research focuses on the general area of developmental neuroscience. In particular she investigates the relationship between neuronal circuits and behaviour, with emphasis on the diversification of circuits that control region-specific movements along the body axis. Specifically, Jimena studies the role of evolutionarily conserved Hox genes in specifying different neuronal networks and their assembly during development. This work will shed light on the mechanism and processes that generate regional specialisation of structure and function in the central nervous system.