Dr. Samir Haj-Dahmane used electrophysiological, pharmacological, and immunohistochemical techniques to characterize the cellular mechanism by which D2-like dopamine receptor activation increased the excitability of dorsal Raphe nucleus serotonergic (5-HT) neurons. The results of this research will further our understanding of the functional interaction between the dopamine and serotonergic systems in the dorsal Raphe nucleus, and thus contribute to the identification of novel and effective treatment strategies for psychiatric disorders such as major depression. Funded by a grant of $781,209 from NIMH, 2001-2005.
