Dr. Bulgari (Shakiryanova) studies the mechanisms of dense-core vesicles transport to nerve terminals and role of presynaptic signaling in regulation of neuropeptide release. She uses combination of genetic, electrophysiology and imaging techniques to study the native intact synapses in Drosophila model system, which feature large synaptic boutons that are amenable to study by light microscopy. Neuropeptides are packaged in large dense-core vesicles and act as local co-transmitters. They influence development, behavior, mood, pain perception, sleep and circadian rhythms, inflammation, appetite. But despite these important functions little is known about the cell physiology underlying their release. These studies will continue to transform the understanding of neuropeptide release and signaling in the nerve terminal, which are fundamental to understanding the operation of the nervous system under physiological and pathological conditions.