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Research InterestsAlcohol dependence is a chronic relapsing brain disorder characterized by an inability to self-regulate alcohol intake. Neuroadaptation within certain brain structures is believed to underlie dependence on alcohol. Of particular interest to researchers are those brain regions that mediate alcohol reinforcement and/or motivation. Neuroadaptations within any one of these brain regions may facilitate the loss of control over alcohol intake, leading to excessive alcohol consumption. To a large extent, research has focused on two associated midbrain-forebrain circuits in the modulation of alcohol reinforcement and/or motivation, the mesolimbic dopamine circuit and the extended amygdala. My lab focuses on two distinct alcohol behavioral phenotypes in mice, the low dose-locomotor stimulant actions of alcohol, and excessive alcohol consumption. Both alcohol phenotypes are believed to model alcohol's reinforcing and/or motivational properties, and both are thought to be mediated by the mesolimbic dopamine circuit and/or the extended amygdala. We utilize a number of techniques to determine which neurotransmitter systems and brain structures are important modulators of these alcohol-related behaviors. Our hope is that such work will someday lead to the development of targeted pharmacotherapies for the treatment of alcohol abuse and dependence in humans. Contact InformationContact Stephen Boehm, Science IV, Room 102 Types of Research Experiences AvailableStudents in my lab will have the opportunity to learn a number of approaches for the assessment of alcohol's behavioral actions in mice. Students will also have the opportunity to obtain training in techniques such as stereotaxic surgery, site-specific microinjection, histology, and several biochemical assays. Motivated students will have the opportunity to design and execute experiments, and present their data in public forum. Specific PrerequisitesStudents must be dedicated sophomores or juniors willing to spend 8-12 hours in the lab per week, including attendance at weekly lab meetings. Although not required, completion of courses in physiological psychology and drugs and behavior is preferred.
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