The Kroener Lab Studies How the Prefrontal Cortex is Altered in Drug Addiction
The Kroener Lab uses preclinical models to study the functional properties of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and its interplay with other brain regions in learning and memory under normal and pathological conditions. Current projects focus on the role of the PFC in the development of substance use disorder and the development of treatments to prevent relapse. Almost 21 million Americans have at least one addiction, and drug abuse and addiction cost American society more than $740 billion annually in lost workplace productivity, healthcare expenses, and crime-related costs. In addition, anxiety, depression, or psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia often go hand in hand with substance abuse.
In order to better understand the cellular mechanisms that contribute to substance abuse we use a combination of behavioral, electrophysiological, and immunohistochemical techniques. These approaches are supported by sophisticated genetic tools, including viruses and transgenic mouse lines, that allow us to characterize and manipulate specific neurons and connections.
Dr. Sven Kroener is an Associate Professor in the Department of Neuroscience in the School of Behavior and Brain Sciences.
