Dr. Davalos investigates how microglia become activated when the brain vasculature is compromised, and how microglial responses affect neuronal function in physiological or pathological conditions. He performed the first in vivo imaging study of microglia and has developed novel methods for intravital microscopy of the brain and spinal cord in living mice. His research combines cutting-edge imaging techniques with molecular, cellular and genetic approaches to study the interactions between blood vessels, neurons, and glia, and understand how their relationships change between health and disease.