Chief's Welcome
As we begin to unravel the biological mechanisms underlying addictive behaviors, it becomes increasingly important to translate this new knowledge into clinical practice. Our Division is at the forefront of understanding the brain disruptions caused by the repetitive, compulsive self-administration of reinforcers, from the molecular and cellular changes in the neural networks of animals self-administering drugs, alcohol, or highly rewarding food to altered brain receptors in addicted patients. Our laboratory research is coupled with clinical investigations of new treatments for the addictions, conducted in close collaboration with community treatment programs in the Dallas-Ft. Worth Metroplex. Through all steps of the process, we are training our future investigators and clinicians in state-of-the-art research methods and treatment approaches. Our website offers easy access to our faculty and their research, a description of our clinical trials, training opportunities within the Division, and links to our community collaborators.
Latest News
- Dr. Colleen McClung has been awarded an NIH Research Project Grant of $250,000 a year for years 2009-2014. Her study is entitled "Addiction-like behavior in models of mood disorders: role of CLOCK and NPAS2". It has been thought for some time that circadian rhythm disruptions contribute to mood disorders and drug addiction, however the exact role of circadian genes in these diseases remains unclear. This grant aims at determining how two proteins that are known to regulate circadian rhythms, CLOCK and NPAS2 function in reward related regions of the brain to regulate behavioral responses to drugs of abuse. Furthermore, since we know from previous studies in the lab that disruption of these proteins leads to models of mood disorders, these studies will help determine why mood disorders and drug addiction are so highly co-morbid.
- Dr. McClung also received a research grant from Glaxosmithkline for 2009-2011 to study Circadian Rhythms in the aetiology of Bipolar Disorder.
- Dr. James Bibb's study entitled "Role of Cdk5 in Drug Addiction" (R01 DA 16672-06A2) was renewed for funding by NIDA.
- Congratulations to Dr. Sidarth Wakhlu who is a teaching award recipient!
