We are delighted to announce that the Zanos Laboratory has secured €600,000 in research funding by the Research and Innovation Foundation, to support several innovative research programs in neuroscience and mental health. This funding will enable our laboratory to pursue multiple distinct lines of investigation that address important questions in mental health research.

In collaboration with Dr. Polymnia Georgiou, we will investigate the role of estrogen receptors in stress susceptibility to develop depression-like behaviors. Using cutting-edge in vivo CRISPR/Cas9 technology, we will examine how these receptors in specific brain circuits influence vulnerability to stress. Through advanced in vivo fiber photometry and slice electrophysiology techniques, we will further study the underlying mechanisms. Additionally, we will explore whether pharmacological activation of these receptors could reverse stress-induced behavioral changes in both male and female rodents.

In a separate research program, we will evaluate novel therapeutic approaches for addressing substance use disorders. Using intravenous drug self-administration models in rodents, we will assess the efficacy of compounds identified to have efficacy by Dr. Anna Onisiforou, the Director of our Systems Bioinformatics unit to prevent or reverse abstinence-associated negative affect and stress-induced reinstatement of drug-seeking behaviors during abstinence.

Our laboratory will also conduct research to understand the downstream molecular mechanisms of novel rapid-acting antidepressants, with a specific focus on markers of synaptic plasticity. Through electrophysiological recordings and molecular analyses, we will characterize how novel rapid-acting antidepressant compounds influence synaptic transmission and neural activity to assist with treating human depression.

These research programs will provide valuable training opportunities for researchers while generating important translational insights into mental health treatment. We look forward to advancing our understanding of these critical health challenges.

For more information about our research or opportunities to join our team, please contact the Zanos Laboratory.