Our laboratory focuses on identification and validation of the therapeutic targets for alcoholism and drug addiction using genetically engineered mice models such as knockout, knockin, and transgenic mice.

To understand the roles of genetic components in alcoholism and drug addiction, we use various approaches in the areas of molecular biology, biochemistry, neuroanatomy, behavior, electrophysiology, and pharmacology.

Currently, we are interested in the role of adenosine in the brain. We found that glutamate-driven CREB activity is decreased in the striatum of type 1 adenosine transporter (ENT1) null mice. Since striatal CREB activation is associated with reduced drug reward, we will determine whether alterations in signaling pathways that account for increased striatal pCREB contribute to tolerance, rewarding effects of ethanol, and increased ethanol consumption in ENT1 null mice.

The overall goal of this project is to identify novel signaling pathways that regulate ethanol responses in the striatum, which may lead us to develop new treatment methods for alcohol use disorders.