MOLECULAR NEUROBIOLOGY RESEARCH BRANCH

Branch Overview

Branch Chief: George R. Uhl, M.D., Ph.D.

The Branch identifies genes and genetic variants that provide insight into addiction, its treatment and related conditions. We use molecular genetic, molecular biologic and pharmacological approaches in human studies and mouse models. We pursue methods that allow us to identify polygenic influences in humans and to test candidate gene and polygenic influences in mouse models.

Human Molecular Genetics

• Molecular genetic bases of individual differences in vulnerability to develop dependence on an addictive substance
• Molecular genetic bases of individual differences in ability to quit smoking (and make other health-related behavior changes)
• Molecular genetic bases of individual differences in other related phenotypes

Human Clinical Studies

• Recruitment and characterization of subjects for genome wide association studies
• Assessments of individual differences in drug responses in individuals who have selected genotypes
• Assessments of individual differences in treatment responses in individuals who have selected genotypes

Mouse Genetics

• Gene-gene interactions: effects on responses to psychostimulants
• Effects of knockouts on drug related behaviors
• Effects of mouse models of human allelic variants in tests of drug response
• Effects of mouse models of human allelic variants in altering synaptic connectivity