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Columbia University Medical Center NewsroomCUMC Expert Resources
| ![[picture of Joy Hirsch, Ph.D. ]](http://www.cumc.columbia.edu/news/pics/Hirsch_Joy_90x90.jpg) Joy Hirsch, Ph.D. ,
Uncovering the neurological circuit that controls the brain''s fear response has major implications for new potential treatments of depression and anxiety disorders. Dr. Joy Hirsch, professor of neuroradiology and psychology at Columbia University Medical Center, was senior author of a paper in the journal Neuron where the discovery of this important circuit at Columbia is discussed. Dr. Hirsch can analyze the finer points of how fear is regulated and controlled in the brain, and can talk about the tools and techniques that were used to identify and pinpoint the emotional circuitry involved. A pioneer in the new and revolutionary field of functional magnetic research imaging (fMRI)—which uses non-invasive technology to produce high-quality, highly accurate images of neurological activity—Dr. Hirsch helped introduce and advance the concept of brain mapping for neurosurgical planning and today directs the fMRI Research Center at Columbia. In 2004, Dr. Hirsch and a team of colleagues used a form of fMRI imaging to capture the brain's processing of unconscious emotion, finding that the amygdala—a brain structure implicated in problems with fear and anxiety—lit up with activity with the fleeting detection of fearful faces. For press inquiries, please contact Elizabeth Streich (eas2125@columbia.edu or 212-305-6535) or Alex Lyda (mal2133@columbia.edu or 212-305-0820).
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