Research-TSRI-ARC

Research

At The Scripps Research Institute Alcohol Research Center (TSRI-ARC), we're committed to advancing the understanding and treatment of alcohol use disorder (AUD) through an integrated research approach. By leveraging the latest in Functional Connectomics, we aim to illuminate the rewiring of the brain's networks in response to alcohol, guiding us toward more effective treatments. Our Neuropharmacology studies explore the neurochemical changes induced by alcohol, aiming to identify new therapeutic strategies. In the realm of Neurophysiology, we're focused on how stress and brain function interplay to escalate alcohol consumption, seeking groundbreaking interventions. Meanwhile, our Molecular research unravel the impacts of alcohol on brain receptors and cells, unlocking potential for innovative therapies. Collectively, our research embodies a holistic pursuit to demystify AUD, promising hope for effective interventions.

Functional Connectomics

Use single-cell whole-brain imaging of immediate-early genes to identify the network mechanisms associated with pharmacological interventions and circuit-specific interventions that decrease addiction-like behaviors during abstinence.

Molecular

Probe the relevance of astrocytic metabotropic glutamate receptor 3 as an important regulator of glutamate homeostasis in the medial prefrontal cortex that can be targeted to reduce excessive alcohol drinking

Neuropharamcology

Provide further knowledge of the neuroadaptations within the infralimbic cortex due to alcohol dependence with a focus on the hypocretin (Hcrt), dynorphin (Dyn) and corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) transmission.

Neurophysiology

Unveil the mechanisms mediating N/OFQ and CRF modulation of infralimbic function and the unique electrophysiological signature of neurons that project to the amygdala and their role in ethanol withdrawal.

Neurocircuitry

Our past work has also shown that activation of a neuronal ensemble in the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) is required for excessive drinking and negative emotional behavior in dependent rats.