The Psychoneuroendocrine Research Group, directed by E. Sherwood Brown, M.D., Ph.D., focuses on (1) dual diagnoses (mood disorders and concurrent substance abuse) and (2) the effects of corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) on mood and memory.

Dual Diagnosis and Substance Abuse
Many people with mood or other psychiatric disorders use drugs and/or alcohol to self-medicate. This is especially true of consumers with bipolar disorder and depression. The PNE research group's ongoing studies in this area examine whether certain medications and/or nutritional supplements can help curb cravings for these substances, as well as help stabilize mood symptoms. The group is currently recruiting consumers with depression and bipolar disorder who struggle with addictions to alcohol, cocaine, methamphetamines, and/or prescription opiates.

Corticosteroids and Secondary Mood Disorders
The PNE group also studies the effects of long-term corticosteroid therapy on brain activity and function. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are often prescribed for asthma, allergies, arthritis, organ transplants, and other inflammatory diseases. A recent project completed by the group examined different aspects of the hippocampus (i.e., volume, biochemistry, and functioning) in participants receiving chronic prednisone therapy. Currently, the PNE lab is examining whether certain medications can prevent the common corticosteroid side-effects of memory impairment and manic/hypomanic symptoms.