Molecular Neuropsychiatry Research Branch - The Intramural Research Program of the National Institute on Drug Abuse

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MOLECULAR Neuropsychiatry RESEARCH BRANCH

Branch Overview

Branch Chief: Jean Lud Cadet, M.D. on-site page link

The Molecular Neuropsychiatry Research Branch is comprised of two sections: The Molecular Neuropsychiatry Section and the Neural Protection and Regeneration Section.

The Branch investigates cellular and molecular mechanisms of neurodegeneration and regeneration. Studies have focused on the role of oxidative stress, ER stress, and mitochondrial pathways in the pathogenesis of psychostimulant toxicity as well as in models of Parkinson’s disease and strokes. The Branch also investigates the potential role of specific agents in the treatment of these disorders. We are also investigating the role of epigenetic modifications in methamphetamine (METH) addiction.

Molecular Neuropsychiatry Section

Section Chief: Jean Lud Cadet, M.D. on-site page link

Our approaches are:

  • To identify changes in METH-induced gene expression in the rodent brain.
  • To investigate specific METH-induced cognitive dysfunctions in rodents.
  • To identify specific METH-induced epigenetic changes in the rodent brain.
  • To investigate the effects of METH preconditioning on gene expression and histone modifications in the brain.

Neural Protection and Regeneration (NPR) Section - click for larger versionNeural Protection and Regeneration (NPR) Section - click for larger version

Neural Protection and Regeneration (NPR) Section

Section Chief: Yun Wang, M.D., Ph.D.  on-site page link

Examples of our research include:

  • Neuroprotection induced by trophic factors, such as GDNF, MANF and bone morphogenetic proteins.
  • Neuroprotective effects of small molecules, such as retinoic acid, antioxidants, and adenosine analogs.
  • Neuroregenerative effects of GDNF, BMP7 and PFT-a.

Optogenetics and Transgenic Technology Core (OTTC)

DIrectors: Brandon Harvey, Ph.D.

Mission:

  • Facilitate research on the molecular and cellular functions of neurons in cognition, behavior and disease

Approach:

  • Develop transgenic animals (rats) and gene delivery vehicles (viral vectors) for spatial and temporal manipulation of genetically-encoded reporters and modulators of neuronal activity

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The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the principal biomedical and behavioral research agency of the United States Government. NIH is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

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