RESEARCH FOCUS

Neurobiological Underpinnings of Addictions

Colorized image of human brain.

Photo credit: National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services

CRIA scientists conduct groundbreaking research about the brain mechanisms that create a vulnerability to addiction in order to develop alternative approaches to treating addiction.

Research at CRIA focused on the neurobiological underpinnings of addiction ranges widely from prenatal and postnatal substance exposure on the mesolimbic dopaminergic pathway; to the endocannabinoid (eCB) system and stress response and anxiety-related behavior; to neuropeptides, craving and anxiety during abstinence; to animal models of risky behavior and impulsivity.

Current neurobiological research