The common theme explored in numerous projects across the site is how changes in gene expression and brain plasticity enable organisms to adapt to their environment. Today, research at the site focuses on the interdisciplinary investigation of epigenetics and neurobiology: EMBL Rome connects under one roof experts studying the control of gene expression with those examining sensory processing and behavioural control. EMBL Rome was established in 1999 to apply EMBL’s approach to research to the study of mammalian physiology and g­­enetics.