Lab of Professor Kuen-sen Hsu

Our laboratory focuses on neuroscience research, with primary interests in exploring how neurodevelopment-related molecules, direct current stimulation, and stress induction influence individual behaviors, neurogenesis, learning, and memory. We aim to elucidate the underlying neurophysiological and molecular mechanisms involved in these processes.

Our laboratory consists of Professor Kuei-Sen Hsu, who brings extensive expertise, passion, and innovative ideas to the field, along with dedicated team members who actively contribute to our research. Professor Hsu has made significant contributions to neuroscience. At a time when the mechanisms underlying brain cognitive functions were still not fully understood, he pioneered research on synaptic plasticity as a key approach to investigating neural function.

Synaptic plasticity plays a critical role in a wide range of processes, from cognitive performance to alterations in neurotransmitter receptors at synapses. With his expertise in electrophysiology and pharmacological background, Professor Hsu has extensively investigated the mechanisms underlying learning, memory, and stress-related regulation. More recently, using the laboratory’s specialized techniques and novel research perspectives, his work has further explored the mechanisms by which oxytocin regulates neurogenesis.

Professor Hsu has published more than one hundred research articles in international SCI-indexed journals and has earned a distinguished academic reputation both domestically and internationally. Within the laboratory, he continuously inspires students to develop independent thinking skills and enhance their experimental capabilities through his enthusiasm and dedication to scientific research.

Our laboratory continuously advances its research technologies in line with developments in neuroscience. Building upon our strong foundation in electrophysiological techniques, we have incorporated behavioral analyses, histological staining methods, and molecular-level investigations. We have also adopted cutting-edge neural modulation approaches, including optogenetics and chemogenetics, to clarify specific upstream and downstream regulatory pathways. These approaches allow us to investigate the roles of neural circuits through precise, real-time, and long-term manipulation.

Currently, our laboratory consists of three Ph.D. students and three master’s students.