Didhiti Mukherjee
The development of the sensory brain relies on early periphery-generated spontaneous neural activity and later sensory-evoked activity. In Professor Patrick Kanold’s lab, my research explored how the developing auditory cortex (ACtx) — a designated area in the brain to process sound — is shaped by self-generated ultrasonic vocalizations, a sound produced abundantly by newborn animals, including mice, during the early postnatal weeks when their ear canals are still closed. By performing live imaging of the brain in awake, week-old mouse pups, I found that the ACtx is strongly activated by the copious number of vocalizations that the pups produce, and this activation is remarkably stronger than external-sound driven activation. Moreover, vocalization-associated activation is also present in pups with congenital deafness, suggesting the activation does not rely on hearing the sound, instead follows a central pathway inside the brain. By performing a series of experiments, I discovered that vocalization-associated activation of the ACtx is linked to signals from motor-related brain regions, namely the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and the secondary motor cortex (M2). ACC/M2 produces commands that generate vocalizations in pups and sends a copy of those commands to the ACtx to activate it. Pharmacological inactivation of the ACC/M2 reduces vocalizations and ACtx activation. Together, my results identify a novel source of early ACtx activity that can shape development and early neural plasticity, expanding our understanding of how the sensory brain is shaped during early development.
Questions & Answers
Why did you choose Johns Hopkins for your work?
The scientific environment at Johns Hopkins is intellectually stimulating and is exemplified by its distinguished neuroscience research, particularly its long-standing contributions to auditory research. The university fosters a collegial, supportive and collaborative atmosphere that welcomes scientists with diverse expertise. I believe this environment has significantly contributed to my development as a researcher. Johns Hopkins’ commitment to groundbreaking research, exceptional resources, and access to advanced techniques collectively create an ideal setting for nurturing future scientists.
What does receiving this award mean to you personally and professionally? Do you have any connection with the particular award you received?
I am deeply honored to receive this award. This recognition of my scientific contribution strengthens my commitment to advancing scientific inquiry. Inspired by previous awardees, I hope my achievement will motivate others to further the progress of science.
Receiving an award named after Dr. A. McGehee Harvey, a distinguished scientist, physician and dedicated educator who advanced biomedical research at The Johns Hopkins University, is a significant honor. Dr. Harvey’s vision of integrating research with medicine closely aligns with my aspiration to combine basic neuroscience research with translational approaches and therapeutic interventions.
What contributed to your project’s success? (Special skills, interests, opportunities, guidance, etc.)
We formulated a fundamental research question and conducted hypothesis-driven experiments to test our predictions, thereby advancing the project in a logical and rational manner. Furthermore, the mentorship provided by Professor Kanold, along with intellectually stimulating discussions, systematic troubleshooting, thorough evaluation of results, integration of interdisciplinary skills, and collaborative engagement of researchers were instrumental in ensuring the project’s successful completion.
What thoughts do you have about Young Investigators’ Day itself, as a celebration of the roles students and fellows play in research at Johns Hopkins?
Young Investigators’ Day acknowledges and celebrates the achievements of emerging scientists and provides a platform for them to present their research to a broad scientific community, engage in scholarly discussions and foster collaborations. These opportunities contribute to the acceleration of scientific advancement. The YIDP awards not only recognize the accomplishments of young researchers but also express appreciation for their diligence, dedication and perseverance in practicing science. Such recognition motivates and sustains researchers’ commitment to science and supports their development as independent scientists.
What has been your best/most memorable experience while at Johns Hopkins?
My most memorable experience at Johns Hopkins involved collaborating with colleagues from diverse disciplines. Through these interactions, I contributed my expertise and acquired valuable new skills and techniques from others. More significantly, I developed enduring friendships with my co-workers that I will continue to value in the years ahead.
What are your plans over the next year or so? Graduating, looking for faculty positions, etc.?
Over the next year, my goal is to apply for an independent faculty position and establish my research lab.
Tell me something interesting about yourself that makes you unique. Do you have any special hobbies, interests or life experiences?
I am a passionate artist and performer. I have professional training in Indian classical music (singing) and extensive experience as a stage actor. Outside the laboratory, I dedicate my time to practicing and performing live music and/or rehearsing and acting in theatrical productions. I am a member of a Maryland-based theatre troupe and have performed in plays across the U.S., including off-off-Broadway productions in New York City.