2025
Zanos Laboratory secures major grant funding of €600,000
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.
New Publication from the Zanos Lab led by Dr. Anna Onisiforou: Microbial Influences in Alzheimer’s Disease
For decades, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) research has been dominated by the amyloid cascade hypothesis, which positions amyloid-beta (Aβ) accumulation as the primary driver of the disease. However, the consistent failure of Aβ-targeted therapies to demonstrate efficacy, coupled with significant safety concerns, has underscored the critical need to rethink our approach to AD treatment.
In our latest comprehensive review published in Microorganisms, led by Dr. Anna Onisiforou, we challenge this traditional perspective by exploring an emerging paradigm: the role of microbial factors in AD pathogenesis. Our analysis synthesizes mounting evidence suggesting that microbial infections may serve as crucial environmental factors in AD pathoetiology, examining the complex interactions between the gut microbiome, oral bacteria, brain biofilms, and viral infections in disease development and progression.
While a definitive causal link remains to be established, the collective evidence presents a compelling case for shifting our focus beyond the conventional amyloid hypothesis. This review not only highlights the potential mechanisms through which various microbial communities might influence AD pathogenesis but also explores promising microbiome-based therapeutic approaches that could revolutionize AD treatment strategies.
Read the full article at:
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2607/13/1/90
2024
The Translational Neuropharmacology (Zanos) Lab participates at the Center for Applied Neuroscience 2024 Conference
We are excited to share that Dr. Zanos, Director of the Translational Neuropharmacology Lab, delivered an engaging talk at the 14th Annual Scientific Conference of the Center for Applied Neuroscience (CAN), held at the University of Cyprus. His presentation, titled “From Whiskers to Wisdom: How Rodent Models can Reveal Neural Mechanisms Underlying Decision-Making and Cognitive Processes”, explored how innovative animal models advance our understanding of cognitive and decision-making processes.
The Zanos Lab was also represented by five posters, showcasing the breadth of our research:
- Dr. Anna Onisiforou presented two posters:
- “Dissecting the Contribution of Herpesviruses in the Emergence of Depressive Symptoms in Alzheimer’s Disease Through Multi-Omics Data.”
- “From Viral Infections to Alzheimer’s Disease: Unveiling the Mechanistic Links Through Systems Bioinformatics.”
- Dr. Andrea Georgiou highlighted shared genetic bases between mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue inflammation and psychiatric disorders.
- Dr. Andria Michael focused on innovative treatments to prevent negative affect and relapse during opioid abstinence.
- Dr. Eleftheria Charalambous explored the gut virome’s role in brain aging.
We extend our gratitude to the CAN organizers for creating a platform to share our work and foster collaborations within the neuroscience community.
Dr. Panos Zanos was selected as a member on the Education and Training Committee of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology (2025–2027)
We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Zanos, the Director of the Translational Neuropharmacology Lab, has been invited to serve on the Education & Training Committee of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ACNP) for the term 2025–2027. This prestigious invitation comes directly from ACNP President-Elect, Prof. William A. Carlezon, recognizing Dr. Zanos’s significant contributions to neuropharmacology and dedication to advancing the field.
The ACNP is committed to advancing scientific understanding and treatment of psychiatric and neurological disorders. Membership and participation in its committees play a crucial role in shaping the future of education and training in neuropsychopharmacology.
Dr. Zanos’s responsibilities will include:
- Mentoring early-career scientists during the ACNP Annual Meetings, offering guidance, career advice, and insights into the field.
- Reviewing travel awardee applications each year, which support early-career researchers in attending the Annual Meeting of ACNP.
- Participating in four committee meetings annually to shape educational and training initiatives in the field of Neuropsychopharmacology.
This honor reflects the Zanos Lab’s ongoing commitment to excellence in translational neuroscience and neuropharmacology research.
We look forward to seeing how Dr. Zanos’s creative ideas and expertise will shape ACNP’s educational mission and further strengthen our field.
Exciting news: Dr. Zanos establishes the Cyprus Neuroscience Society (C.N.S.)!
Dr. Panos Zanos, the Director of the Translational Neuropharmacology Lab, proudly announces the establishment of the Cyprus Neuroscience Society (C.N.S.)—a pioneering achievement for the neuroscience-related scientific community in Cyprus. Together with 20 founding members representing various neuroscience disciplines, the founding Director of the Society, Dr. Zanos collaborates with leading neuroscientists across the country to cultivate a deeper understanding of Neuroscience and its applicationsAs the founding Director of the Society, Dr. Zanos collaborates with leading neuroscientists across the country to cultivate a deeper understanding of Neuroscience and its applications.
The CNS is a non-governmental, non-profit organization based in Nicosia, Cyprus, dedicated to advancing Neuroscience education, research, and public awareness. This Society aims to position Cyprus as a hub for neuroscience excellence, fostering both local and international collaboration.
Key Objectives of the Cyprus Neuroscience Society:
- Advancing Neuroscience Research: Supporting innovative studies that delve into the complexities of the nervous system, from molecular mechanisms to behavioral outcomes.
- Enhancing Neuroscience Education: Promoting neuroscience literacy through seminars, workshops, and reliable scientific communication tailored to students, professionals, and the general public.
- Raising Public Awareness: Engaging the community in understanding the implications of neuroscience research for health, disease, and daily life, while advocating evidence-based practices.
- Global Neuroscience Representation: Acting as a bridge between Cyprus and the international neuroscience community by participating in global conferences and initiatives.
- Empowering Neuroscientists in Cyprus: Providing resources, recognition, and networking opportunities for members to flourish in their professional efforts.
The Society also plans to organize scientific conferences/meetings, foster collaborations among neuroscientists, and publish findings that highlight the significance of Neuroscience advancements in Cyprus and beyond. Its emblem, a neuron encircled by the founding year “2024,” represents the Society’s mission to unify and elevate Neuroscience research in Cyprus.
This is an exciting milestone for Neuroscience in Cyprus, laying the foundation for collaborative efforts to unravel the mysteries of the brain and nervous system.
Stay connected for updates on our initiatives, events, and opportunities to join the Cyprus Neuroscience Society!
Dr. Zanos appointed as a member to the Cyprus National Bioethics Committee
We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Panos Zanos, the Principal Investigator of the Translational Neuropharmacology Lab, has been appointed as a member of the Cyprus National Bioethics Committee (CNBC) following a rigorous application and interview process.
The CNBC plays a pivotal role in advising and guiding ethical practices in research, healthcare, and policy-making in Cyprus. Dr. Zanos’s expertise in neuropharmacology and his commitment to advancing ethical standards in neuroscience research will contribute to the committee’s mission of promoting responsible scientific progress.
For more information about the CNBC, visit https://www.bioethics.gov.cy.
Celebrating excellence: Our Ph.D. students, Despina Melanthiou and Stylianos Valiantis awarded a training fellowship!
We are excited to share that Stylianos Valiantis, a talented Ph.D. student in the Translational Neuropharmacology Lab, has been awarded a fellowship to support their doctoral training! This highly competitive award, granted based on academic merit and research potential, highlights our Ph.D. students’ potential to advancing neuroscience research.
Their work focuses on uncovering novel mechanisms underlying the rapid efficacy of antidepressants, aiming to transform our understanding and treatment of depression. Their research holds immense promise for improving mental health care.
We congratulate both Stylianos and Despina on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to the groundbreaking discoveries they will undoubtedly achieve during his Ph.D. journey. Stay tuned for updates on their exciting work!
Grant Success: Dr. Andrea Georgiou, our Marie Curie Fellow, secures first independent research €150,000 grant
We are excited to announce that Dr. Andrea Georgiou, our esteemed Marie-Curie Fellow at the Zanos Lab, has secured her first grant as Principal Investigator! The Research and Innovation Foundation in Cyprus has awarded Dr. Georgiou a prestigious €150,000 grant to advance her innovative research program.
Dr. Georgiou’s funded project focuses on unraveling the molecular mechanisms underlying Parkinson’s disease, promising to contribute valuable insights to the field of neurodegenerative disorders. This research aligns perfectly with our lab’s mission to push the boundaries of neuroscience and develop novel therapeutic strategies.
This significant achievement not only recognizes Dr. Georgiou’s scientific excellence but also highlights the caliber of research conducted at the Zanos Lab. As she embarks on this new chapter of independent investigation, we are confident that her work will make substantial contributions to our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases.
Exciting news for the Zanos Lab: €100,000 funds awarded for laboratory equipment and consumables!
We are thrilled to announce that the Translational Neuropharmacology Lab (Zanos Lab) has been awarded €100,000 in state funds to support our cutting-edge research. These funds will be used to upgrade our laboratory equipment and ensure a steady supply of essential consumables, enabling us to advance our mission of understanding and developing novel therapies for neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders.
In addition to boosting our research capabilities, this grant will significantly enhance the educational experiences of our students. By providing access to state-of-the-art tools and resources, we aim to equip the next generation of scientists with hands-on training and valuable skills to excel in neuroscience and neuropharmacology research.
This funding marks an important step in enhancing our research capabilities, fostering innovative discoveries, and creating impactful solutions to improve brain health.
Stay tuned for updates as we continue to push the boundaries of neuroscience and neuropharmacology research!
Dr. Onisiforou from the Zanos lab presents novel findings at IDWeek 2024 in Los Angeles, USA
We are excited to announce that Dr. Onisiforou from our lab is currently participating in IDWeek 2024, taking place in Los Angeles, USA. IDWeek is a premier international conference bringing together researchers and clinicians to discuss the latest advancements in infectious diseases.
At the conference, Dr. Onisiforou is presenting her novel research on the molecular mechanisms linking infections to neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer’s disease. Her poster, titled “Dissecting the Contribution of Herpesviruses in the Emergence of Depressive Symptoms in Alzheimer’s Disease through Multi-Omics Data,” highlights groundbreaking findings on how herpesviruses may play a role in the onset of depressive symptoms in Alzheimer’s patients, utilizing cutting-edge multi-omics data analysis.
We are proud of Dr. Onisiforou’s continued contributions to this important area of research and her commitment to advancing our understanding of the complex relationship between infections and neurodegenerative diseases.
For more information on the conference, visit the IDWeek website.
Dr. Zanos and Dr. Onisiforou at the Science of Alzheimer’s & Infectious Diseases symposium in California, USA
We are pleased to share that Dr. Zanos and Dr. Onisiforou from our lab recently participated in the Science of Alzheimer’s & Infectious Diseases Symposium, hosted by the IDSA Foundation. The symposium focused on the emerging connections between infectious diseases and Alzheimer’s disease (AD), bringing together leading experts to discuss the latest scientific advancements in the field.
At the event, Dr. Onisiforou presented her novel findings on the role of infections in the development and progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Her research provides valuable insights into how infectious agents may contribute to the onset and exacerbation of AD, potentially paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies targeting infection-related pathways.
We are proud of Dr. Onisiforou’s contributions to this critical area of study and look forward to the continued impact of her work in advancing our understanding of Alzheimer’s disease.
For more information on the symposium, visit the IDSA Foundation website.
Congratulations to Dr. Polymnia Louka for securing a Marie-Curie co-fund grant to work in the Zanos lab
We are excited to announce that Dr. Polymnia Louka, our new postdoctoral researcher, has successfully secured €150,000 in funding through the European Marie-Curie Co-Fund. The grant will support her research project titled “Identifying the Effects of Ketamine and Its Metabolites on Depression-Induced Impairment in Bone Health.”
Dr. Louka’s project aims to address a critical gap in understanding the connection between depression and bone health, particularly how rapid-acting antidepressants like ketamine can impact bone physiology. Her research will explore the effects of ketamine and its metabolites on bone remodeling, both in vitro and in vivo, and investigate potential synergistic benefits of combining ketamine with other agents such as sulforaphane.
This interdisciplinary study will be conducted in collaboration with the University of Cyprus and the Royal Veterinary College. Under the mentorship of Dr. Zanos and Prof. Santama, the project aims to advance our understanding of mental and physical health, potentially leading to new therapeutic approaches.
Congratulations to Dr. Louka on this remarkable achievement, and we look forward to the impactful results from this innovative research!!
New computational publication: A novel algorithm to uncover comorbid disease mechanisms
We are excited to announce the publication of our latest research in the Computational & Structural Biotechnology Journal, titled “One Path, Two Solutions: Network-Based Analysis Identifies Targetable Pathways for the Treatment of Comorbid Type II Diabetes and Neuropsychiatric Disorders.”
This study introduces a novel computational algorithm that provides unprecedented insight into the shared molecular mechanisms underlying the comorbidity of Type II Diabetes (DM2) and various Neuropsychiatric Disorders (NPDs), including Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Schizophrenia, and others.
By developing an integrated DM2 ∩ NPDs pathway-pathway network, we applied our algorithm to identify critical pathways and nodes, such as the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, calcium signaling, MAPK, and apoptosis pathways. These insights not only reveal key targets for treatment but also pave the way for precision medicine by addressing both DM2 and NPDs simultaneously, offering potential for more effective and personalized therapeutic strategies.
The broad impact of this work lies in the versatility of the computational framework we’ve developed. Beyond DM2 and NPDs, this algorithm can be adapted to study other complex comorbid conditions, making it a powerful tool in the field of systems biology and personalized medicine.
Discover how this groundbreaking algorithm could revolutionize the approach to comorbid disease treatment:
https://www.csbj.org/article/S2001-0370(24)00331-3/fulltext
The Zanos Lab was awarded €200,000 grant to study Hydroxynorketamine’s antidepressant cellular and molecular mechanisms
We are thrilled to announce that the Zanos Lab has been awarded a grant to investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind the antidepressant actions of (2R,6R)-hydroxynorketamine ((2R,6R)-HNK), in collaboration with Prof. Kobi Rosenblum. This metabolite of ketamine has shown promise in inducing rapid antidepressant effects without the adverse effects associated with ketamine itself in mice, and is now in phase II clinical trials in humans for the treatment of major depression.
The project aims to uncover the role of the eukaryotic elongation factor 2 kinase (eEF2K) pathway in mediating the sustained antidepressant actions of (2R,6R)-HNK. A multidisciplinary approach will be employed, integrating advanced techniques such as in vivo electroencephalography, ex vivo electrophysiology, immunohistochemistry, and proteome analysis.
This research has the potential to pave the way for future therapeutic developments targeting major depressive disorder, offering hope to those who have not responded to traditional treatments.
Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting project unfolds!
Dr. Zanos was invited and presented intriguing findings on ketamine’s mechanism of antidepressant action at the 11th mGlu 2024 conference in Sicily
We are excited to announce that Dr. Zanos recently presented at the prestigious mGlu 2024 meeting in Sicily, Italy. His talk, titled “Interplay between the mGluR2 signalling and ketamine’s rapid antidepressant actions: Exploring the possible role of NMDAR activation,” offered key insights into the mechanisms underlying ketamine’s antidepressant effects.
Stay tuned for more research updates from our lab. Below is a photo from the presentation!
Zanos Lab at the European Research Night 2024 in Cyprus
We are excited to share that Zanos Lab participated in this year’s European Research Night (ERN) event in Cyprus, an initiative aimed at bringing research and innovation closer to the public. During the event, we had the opportunity to engage with students and visitors, offering insights into our ongoing research projects focused on addiction.
Our team presented to students and public our two key clinical studies:
- We discussed our work on identifying biomarkers that can predict vulnerability to relapse after a period of abstinence.
- We shared our research on evaluating ketamine’s potential to prevent relapse, aiming to offer new hope in the treatment of opioid addiction.
In addition to showcasing our projects, we took the opportunity to inform the public about the significance of neuroscience research in Cyprus, emphasizing its role in advancing our understanding of brain health and addiction.
Thank you to everyone who visited our booth and showed interest in our work. We look forward to participating in future events and continuing to contribute to the scientific community.
Our postdoctoral fellow, Dr. Andria Michael, was awarded a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Young Investigator grant (€147.000) for Innovative research in the Zanos lab.
We are thrilled to announce that our postdoctoral fellow, Dr. Andria Michael, from the Zanos lab, has been awarded a prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie young investigator grant under the ONISILOS co-fund scheme. This grant will support Dr. Michael’s innovative research aimed at identifying the role of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A (VEGF-A) in the development of substance use disorders.
This cross-species project integrates cutting-edge molecular neurobiology and epigenetic methodologies, utilizing both mouse and zebrafish models to provide a comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms. The study is supervised by Dr. Panos Zanos and benefits from collaborative efforts with Prof. Niovi Santama (University of Cyprus) and Prof. Debby Van Dam (University of Antwerp), bringing together expertise from multiple institutions.
By combining diverse animal models and advanced research techniques, this ambitious project aims to uncover hidden mechanisms leading to the development of substance use disorders. The findings from this study have the potential to significantly contribute to our understanding of addiction neurobiology and pave the way for next-generation, more effective treatments.
This grant not only recognizes Dr. Michael’s exceptional potential as a young investigator but also underscores the importance of innovative, multidisciplinary approaches in addressing complex neuropsychiatric conditions. We look forward to the groundbreaking insights that will emerge from this research, potentially transforming our approach to substance use disorder prevention and treatment.
New Publication: Ketamine as a Potential Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder.
The Zanos lab is excited to announce the publication of our latest research paper in the prestigious journal Biological Psychiatry. Our study explores the potential of ketamine and its metabolites as novel therapeutic strategies for treating Opioid Use Disorder (OUD).
In this comprehensive review, we examine both preclinical and clinical research on ketamine’s potential in OUD treatment. The paper discusses ketamine’s promise in managing acute withdrawal symptoms, alleviating negative affect during protracted opioid abstinence, and preventing relapse. We also delve into the molecular targets of ketamine and its metabolites, exploring their relation to OUD treatment outcomes.
Our findings suggest that ketamine and its metabolites can effectively modulate pathophysiological processes affected in OUD, offering a promising new avenue for treatment and relapse prevention. Importantly, our review indicates that ketamine and its metabolites could be tested in clinical trials for their efficacy in treating OUD. We propose that these compounds could initially serve as adjuncts to current therapies, with the potential to be developed into standalone monotherapies in the future.
For more information: https://www.biologicalpsychiatryjournal.com/article/S0006-3223(24)01591-9/fulltext
New Publication: Unveiling the Links Between Viral Infections and Alzheimer’s Disease.
The Bioinformatics Unit of the Zanos Lab is proud to announce our latest publication, “From Viral Infections to Alzheimer’s Disease: Unveiling the Mechanistic Links Through Systems Bioinformatics,” which explores the complex relationship between viral infections and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Dr. Anna Onisiforou utilized advanced systems bioinformatics techniques to investigate how various viruses, including herpesviruses, hepatitis viruses, influenza, and SARS-CoV-2, might contribute to AD onset or progression.
Our study revealed that these viruses can impact AD-related processes through their interactions with host proteins. Herpesviruses were found to influence critical AD processes such as amyloid-β formation and neuronal death, while hepatitis viruses affected cellular homeostasis and microglia activation. Notably, we discovered that the reactivation of certain herpesviruses during SARS-CoV-2 infection could potentially enhance neurodegeneration through synergistic effects on various cellular processes.
This research highlights the intricate connections between viral infections and AD development, suggesting that different viruses may influence AD susceptibility through both shared and distinct mechanisms. Our findings open up new avenues for understanding Alzheimer’s disease and could pave the way for novel therapeutic strategies targeting viral factors that contribute to disease progression.
The full paper is available in the following link:
https://academic.oup.com/jid/article/230/Supplement_2/S128/7754707
Zanos Lab awarded €20,000 award by the A. G. Leventis Foundation for our ongoing research on rapid-acting antidepressants.
We are excited to announce that the Zanos Lab has just been awarded a grant of €20,000 by the A.G. Leventis Foundation. This funding will significantly enhance our ongoing research efforts to uncover the mechanisms of action behind rapid-acting antidepressant compounds.
Depression remains one of the most challenging mental health conditions, and the discovery of rapid-acting antidepressants has opened new avenues for treatment. Our lab is dedicated to understanding how these compounds work at a molecular level, which could pave the way for more effective therapies for those suffering from depression.
The support from the A.G. Leventis Foundation will allow us to advance our studies, contributing valuable insights to the scientific community and offering hope to millions affected by this debilitating condition.
We look forward to sharing our findings with the community as we continue our mission to make a meaningful impact in the field of mental health.
New article published in a Cypriot Newspaper by members of the Zanos Lab: Understanding “Smiling” Depression in the Era of Social Media.
Researchers from the Zanos Lab have published an article in the Greek Newspaper “Neolaia” (Youth) examining the phenomenon of “smiling” depression. This form of depression is characterized by individuals presenting a cheerful, successful image on social media while concealing their true feelings of sadness.
The article, co-authored by Dr. Anna Onisiforou and Dr. Panos Zanos, suggests that the curated, positive depictions on social media can shape perceptions and influence expectations. Algorithms that prioritize engaging content may pressure users to maintain a cheerful online persona, even when facing personal challenges.
These incidents where individuals who seemed happy on social media later took their own lives serve as a stark reminder that what we see online often doesn’t reflect the full reality of someone’s life. These tragic cases highlight the disconnect between curated online personas and the private struggles that people may be facing.
The Zanos Lab aims to raise awareness and encourage more authentic online interactions to promote individual well-being and a sense of community.
Our postdoctoral fellow, Dr. Alexis Panutsopulos was awarded a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Young Investigator Grant (€ 147.000) for Innovative Research in the Zanos Lab.
We are thrilled to announce that our postdoctoral fellow, Dr. Panutsopulos, has been awarded a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Young Investigator grant under the ONISILOS co-fund scheme. This grant will support Dr. Panoutsopoulos’ cutting-edge research aimed at investigating the role of antidepressants, such as SSRIs and ketamine, in the development of neural tube defects (NTDs) during early embryogenesis.
Dr. Panoutsopoulos’ project employs advanced methodologies using human-induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neural organoids to model neural tube formation and assess the effects of antidepressants on this critical developmental process. By utilizing innovative gene-editing tools such as CRISPR-Cas9, combined with molecular and proteomic analyses, the study will uncover the complex mechanisms through which antidepressants influence neural tube closure and may contribute to NTDs.
Supervised by Dr. Zanos, this interdisciplinary research is poised to provide critical insights into the safety of antidepressant use during pregnancy, particularly regarding their impact on embryonic neurodevelopment. This study not only enhances our understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders but also has the potential to influence future guidelines on the clinical use of antidepressants.
Dr. Panoutsopoulos’ award underscores his exceptional promise as a young investigator and highlights the Zanos Lab’s commitment to advancing innovative, multidisciplinary approaches to complex neurobiological challenges. We are excited about the groundbreaking contributions this research will make to the field of developmental neurobiology.
Zanos laboratory’s BioNic research featured in major Cypriot newspaper. Our research pioneers the future of smoking cessation.
The Zanos Laboratory at the University of Cyprus has recently been featured in one of Cyprus’ leading newspapers for its groundbreaking BioNic research program. Led by Principal Investigator Dr. Panos Zanos and Marie Curie fellow Dr. Andrea N. Georgiou, this innovative study aims to revolutionize smoking cessation strategies by identifying biological markers that can predict vulnerability to relapse in individuals attempting to quit smoking.
The BioNic program combines cutting-edge biological research with a clinically-tested avatar-based psychological intervention. By analyzing various biomarkers such as stress hormones, neurotransmitters, and epigenetic indicators associated with addiction, the research team is working towards developing more personalized and effective approaches to smoking cessation. This scientific endeavor not only promises to enhance our understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying nicotine addiction and relapse but also holds the potential to significantly improve success rates for those striving to quit smoking. The feature in the national newspaper underscores the importance and potential impact of this research on public health in Cyprus and beyond.
Groundbreaking Phase I clinical trial results: (2R,6R)-Hydroxynorketamine (HNK) shows an excellent safety profile.
We are thrilled to announce a major milestone in our research journey. The manuscript detailing the Phase I clinical trial results for (2R,6R)-Hydroxynorketamine (HNK), a metabolite of ketamine, has just been published. The study, titled “A Phase 1 Assessment of the Safety, Tolerability, Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of (2R,6R)-HNK in healthy volunteers,” demonstrates the compound’s excellent tolerability in human subjects. This publication marks a crucial moment in the trajectory of (2R,6R)-HNK, from its initial discovery from the Director of the lab, Dr. Zanos, to its current status in human clinical trials. The successful completion of this Phase I trial represents a key step in translating preclinical findings into potential therapeutic applications, which is among the important aims of our laboratory. Our collaboration with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has been instrumental in advancing this promising compound from bench to bedside.
As this metabolite progresses to Phase II trials for both pain management and major depression treatment, we are optimistic about the potential of this compound to address significant unmet medical needs. This achievement underscores our laboratory’s commitment to innovative neuropharmacological research and its potential to improve patient outcomes.
For more details, please refer to our published manuscript: https://ascpt.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/cpt.3391
Stay tuned for further updates as we continue our mission to develop novel therapeutic approaches for neuropsychiatric disorders and other brain diseases.
Dr. Zanos’s Research Leads the Field in Ketamine Studies for Depression.
We are proud to announce that Dr. Zanos’s groundbreaking research on ketamine has achieved exceptional recognition within the scientific community. According to a recent publication in the European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience, Dr. Zanos’s work constitutes the top three most cited papers on ketamine and its enantiomers for depression from 2000 to 2023.
- “NMDAR inhibition-independent antidepressant actions of ketamine metabolites” published in Nature (2016) has been cited more than 1500 times, highlighting its significant impact on understanding ketamine’s mechanisms beyond NMDAR inhibition.
- “Ketamine and ketamine metabolite pharmacology: insights into therapeutic mechanisms” published in Pharmacological Reviews (2018) with 1000 citations, offers comprehensive insights into the pharmacological profiles and therapeutic potentials of ketamine and its metabolites.
- “Mechanisms of ketamine action as an antidepressant” published in Molecular Psychiatry (2018), cited 890 times, delves into the underlying mechanisms by which ketamine exerts its rapid antidepressant effects.
These highly influential papers underscore Dr. Zanos’s leading role in advancing the field of ketamine research, providing critical insights into its therapeutic potential for treating depression and other brain diseases. His work continues to shape the scientific discourse and drive forward new avenues for clinical applications.
Dr. Zanos was invited as an expert to give an interview and answer critical question about depression and its underlying mechanisms by a groundbreaking European-funded initiative .
Dr. Zanos was invited as an expert contributor to the “TO AITION” project’s Q&A section. “TO AITION” is a groundbreaking EU-funded project investigating the complex relationship between cardiovascular disease (CVD) and depression, aiming to uncover underlying mechanisms and develop novel tools for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. In this role, Dr. Zanos addressed critical questions about depression, leveraging his expertise in neuropharmacology. The questions covered a range of important topics, including the genetic factors in depression, the role of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, the challenges of treatment-resistant depression, and the potential of personalized medicine in improving treatment outcomes. Dr. Zanos’s selection as an expert for this initiative highlights the Zanos Lab’s significant contributions to the field and underscores their commitment to advancing understanding of depression within the context of its comorbidity with cardiovascular disease.
For more info read: https://www.to-aition.eu/qadepression
Gut-Brain connections: Our postdoctoral researcher Dr. Charalambous presents groundbreaking research on phageome and brain ageing at Grainau workshop.
Our postdoctoral researcher Eleftheria Charalambous presented our latest findings at the 12th Grainau Workshop of Genetic Epidemiology in Grainau, Germany. With her talk “The gut phageome is associated with brain ageing” she sparked insightful conversations with other researchers. Dr. Charalambous studies the link between bacteriophages in the gut microbiome and the brain. Bacteriophages are viruses that infect bacteria and are thought to be important drivers for microbiome composition and function. She particularly focuses on ageing as well as the ageing brain, investigating how these microbes could influence cognitive function over time.
Dr. Charalambous’s research indicates that the ‘gut phageome’ and the overall gut microbial ecosystem have an indispensable role in maintaining brain function and potentially manipulating age-associated neurodegenerative pathologies. The ‘gut phageome’ is defined as the totality of all bacteriophage genetic material within the gut. Dr. Charalambous’s objective is to decipher in deep detail how fluctuations in the overall phageome associate with the process of brain ageing. Based on brain ageing scores inferred from brain imaging outputs, she discovered that certain types of phages are present in healthy ageing brains, while others increase their abundance during initial stages of Alzheimer’s Diseases.
The Grainau meeting has shown us the urgency and importance of investigating microbe-host as well as gut–brain interactions, but also of developing early screening and intervention measures for age-related neurodegenerative diseases and brain health in general. This research opens up new avenues for exploring how the gut microbiome could be leveraged to promote healthy brain ageing.
Dr. Zanos discusses substance use disorders on Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation TV channel (RIK 1).
We are thrilled to share that Dr. Panos Zanos was invited to appear on RIK Sat, the satellite television channel of the Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation (CyBC), to discuss the critical issue of drug addiction. This invitation from RIK Sat, one of Cyprus’s premier broadcasting platforms, underscores the significance of Dr. Zanos’ work in the field of neurobiology and addiction, which is pivotal in a country with limited specialized research in this area.
During his appearance, Dr. Zanos provided an in-depth analysis of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying various forms of drug addiction, including opioids, stimulants, and other substances. He explained how these drugs affect the brain’s reward system, with a particular focus on dopamine—a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in reinforcing drug-taking behavior. This reinforcement is a common pathway across different substances, leading to the development of addiction.
Dr. Zanos also discussed the concept of tolerance, where repeated drug use results in the brain adapting and requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. This cycle of increasing use and dependence often leads to severe withdrawal symptoms, which further entrench the addiction. He highlighted recent advancements in addiction research, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive treatment plans that address both the biological and psychological aspects of addiction.
The interview on RIK Sat not only shed light on the complex nature of drug addiction but also highlighted the importance of continued research and education in this field. Dr. Zanos’ insights are crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies, ultimately aiming to improve outcomes for those struggling with substance use disorders.
Stay tuned to our lab’s website for more updates and insights from Dr. Zanos and his team as we continue to advance our understanding of neurobiology and addiction through cutting-edge research.
New Preprint: Network-Based Analysis Identifies Targetable Pathways in Comorbid Type II Diabetes and Neuropsychiatric Disorders.
We are pleased to announce the release of a new preprint from Dr. Anna Onisiforou and Dr. Panos Zanos, titled “Network-Based Analysis Identifies Targetable Pathways in Comorbid Type II Diabetes and Neuropsychiatric Disorders.” This preprint is available on bioRxiv and represents a significant step forward in understanding the complex interactions between Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DM2) and various neuropsychiatric disorders (NPDs). You can access the full preprint here.
Comorbid diseases complicate patient outcomes and escalate healthcare costs, necessitating a deeper mechanistic understanding. Neuropsychiatric disorders (NPDs) such as Neurotic Disorder, Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, and Schizophrenia significantly exacerbate Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DM2), often leading to suboptimal treatment outcomes. The neurobiological underpinnings of this comorbidity remain poorly understood. To address this, Dr. Onisiforou and Dr. Zanos developed a novel pathway-based network computational framework that identifies critical common disease mechanisms between DM2 and the five prevalent NPDs.
Their approach involves reconstructing an integrated DM2 ∩ NPDs KEGG pathway network and applying two complementary analytical methods, including the “minimum path to comorbidity” method to identify the shortest pathways fostering comorbid development. This analysis uncovered shared pathways like the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and highlighted key nodes such as calcium signaling, MAPK, estrogen signaling, and apoptosis pathways. The dysregulation of these pathways likely contributes to the development of DM2-NPDs comorbidity.
The findings from this study not only elucidate the intricate molecular interactions driving this comorbidity but also identify promising therapeutic targets, paving the way for innovative treatment strategies. This framework can be adapted to study other complex comorbid conditions, offering broad implications for improving patient care. The Zanos Laboratory is excited about the potential applications of this model in advancing our understanding of comorbid diseases and enhancing therapeutic approaches.
Dr. Zanos Speaks on Neurobiology of Drug Addiction at Substance Use Disorders Awareness Event in Cyprus.
We are excited to share that Dr. Zanos was invited by OFSEAK Cyprus and the Cyprus Anti-Cancer Society to deliver a keynote address on the neurobiology of drug addiction at a recent Substance Use Disorders Awareness event. This notable event took place in Cyprus and was covered extensively by several television outlets.
Dr. Zanos’s presentation discussed the neurobiological mechanisms behind drug addiction, providing critical insights into this vital area of research. The event attracted a diverse audience, including leading scientists, healthcare professionals, and policymakers. Adding to the event’s importance was the attendance of the Minister of Health of Cyprus.
New Publication: Molecular Signatures of Premature Aging in Major Depression and Substance Use Disorders.
We are excited to announce the latest publication from our talented Research Associate and Head of the Bioinformatics Unit, Dr. Anna Onisiforou, in collaboration with Dr. Polymnia Georgiou. Their groundbreaking paper, titled “Molecular signatures of premature aging in Major Depression and Substance Use Disorders,” has been published in Scientific Data (Nature Group).
Major depressive disorder (MDD) and substance-use disorders (SUDs) are known to lead to premature aging, increasing vulnerability to cognitive decline and various forms of dementia. Utilizing advanced systems bioinformatics, this study has identified specific aging “signatures” in MDD and SUDs and evaluated the potential of known lifespan-extending drugs to target and reverse these signatures. The study identified transcriptional activation of FOS gene family members as a potential target for mitigating premature aging in individuals with MDD and SUDs.
The research also highlighted that antidepressant drugs that activate the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, common in rapid-acting antidepressants, may accelerate aging in MDD patients. This suggests they may not be suitable for those with aging-related conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. In contrast, several potential anti-aging interventions for MDD patients were identified, such as Deferoxamine, Resveratrol, Estradiol valerate, and natural compounds like zinc acetate, genistein, and ascorbic acid, which may be effective regardless of comorbid anxiety disorders.
These findings provide crucial insights into the premature aging effects of MDD and SUDs and offer promising treatment strategies for patients with comorbid aging-related conditions. The research underscores the importance of personalized medicine approaches in treating MDD and SUDs, particularly in patients at risk for cognitive decline and dementia. We congratulate Dr. Onisiforou and her collaborators for their significant contribution to understanding the intersection of mental health disorders and aging. This innovative work not only advances scientific knowledge but also opens new avenues for therapeutic interventions aimed at improving the quality of life for patients suffering from these complex conditions.
To read the full paper, please visit: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41597-024-03538-z.
Stay tuned for more updates and insights from the Zanos Laboratory as we continue to push the boundaries of bioinformatics and neuroscience research.
Dr. Zanos discusses the path to alcohol dependence on a TV program.
Dr. Zanos was recently invited to speak on a TV channel about the neurobiology of alcohol addiction, where he explored the complex processes that lead from casual alcohol use to full-blown dependence. Initially, alcohol consumption often presents an aversive taste; however, this negative experience is quickly overshadowed by the activation of the brain’s reward system. Central to this process is dopamine, a neurotransmitter crucial to the brain’s reward circuitry. When alcohol is consumed, dopamine levels rise, creating a sense of pleasure and reinforcing the behavior. Over time, the brain begins to associate alcohol with positive feelings, despite the initial aversion. This learned association paves the way for repeated use, as individuals seek to replicate the pleasurable effects.
As alcohol use continues, tolerance develops, necessitating the consumption of larger quantities to achieve the same euphoric effect. Dr. Zanos highlighted that this is where the dark side of alcohol addiction becomes apparent. The brain’s adaptation to alcohol results in a diminished response to its effects, driving the need for increased doses. Eventually, individuals become reliant on alcohol not for pleasure but to stave off severe withdrawal symptoms that arise when consumption ceases. These symptoms, which can include tremors, anxiety, and nausea, manifest as the brain’s dependence on alcohol to maintain normal function. Thus, what begins as spontaneous use can escalate into a cycle of dependence, where the primary motivation shifts from seeking pleasure to avoiding discomfort. Dr. Zanos’ insights underscore the importance of addressing both the neurobiological and psychological components in treatment and prevention strategies.
Our postdoctoral researcher, Dr. Eleftheria Charalambous, presented our latest findings at the 10th International Human Microbiome Consortium (IHMC) Congress 2024, held in Rome, Italy.
Her presentation, titled “The gut phageome is associated with healthy brain ageing” drew significant interest from fellow researchers. Dr. Charalambous’s work explores the connection between bacteriophages in the gut microbiome and cognitive health as we age. Her research suggests that the makeup and variety of the gut phageome may play an important role in maintaining brain function and possibly modulating age-related cognitive decline.
The positive response to this work at the IHMC Congress highlights its potential to deepen our understanding of how the gut and brain interact. It also opens up new possibilities for addressing age-related cognitive issues.
Our new chapter entitled “Neuroendocrine Regulation of Anxiety” is now out in book: Anxiety Disorders and Related Conditions.
Our latest book chapter delves into the complex interactions between the central nervous system and endocrine signals, highlighting their crucial role in shaping emotional processing and behaviors related to anxiety. While the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis has traditionally been the focal point, this chapter expands the discussion to include various steroid and peptide hormones that are increasingly recognized for their impact on anxiety behaviors.
This comprehensive review explores recent advancements in understanding how different hormones, including those associated with brain stress systems, neuropeptides, neurosteroids, and steroid hormones, contribute to anxiety regulation. Insights from both fundamental research and clinical investigations suggest that these hormonal systems may underlie stress-induced changes in anxiety and related behaviors. By exploring these diverse mechanisms, the chapter aims to open new avenues for innovative approaches to treat stress-related mental health conditions.
The chapter identifies a range of neuroendocrine targets, offering a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying anxiety disorders and highlighting potential new therapeutic targets. This broadened perspective could lead to more effective strategies for mitigating anxiety and improving mental health outcomes.
For more details check: https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-56798-8_3
Dr. Zanos was invited to present data on GluN2AR-dependent antidepressant actions of ketamine and other putative antidepressants at the CINP conference.
Dr. Zanos recently presented our latest research on the antidepressant actions of ketamine and other potential antidepressants at the European University of Cyprus. His talk focused on the role of NMDA receptor (NMDAR) activation in the rapid antidepressant effects of these compounds. Contrary to the traditional view of ketamine as an NMDAR antagonist, our findings suggest that activation of these receptors, particularly the GluN2A subunit, is crucial for their antidepressant actions.
Our research demonstrated that ketamine and other rapid-acting antidepressants, such as (2R,6R)-hydroxynorketamine and MRK-016, depend on NMDA receptor activation to exert their effects. Behavioral pharmacology experiments, along with hippocampal protein analysis and electrophysiology studies in mice, revealed that blocking NMDA receptors inhibits these antidepressant-like behaviors. These insights highlight the potential of targeting NMDA receptor signaling to develop next-generation treatments for depression.
Dr. Zanos emphasized the broader implications of these findings for depression therapy, suggesting that enhancing NMDA receptor-dependent synaptic potentiation could be a promising strategy for new antidepressant interventions. This research opens up new avenues for developing treatments that are faster-acting and more effective for individuals with depression.
Dr. Zanos was invited to a podcast to discuss the research happening in Cyprus and its implications for human life.
Dr. Zanos recently appeared on a podcast to discuss the exciting research developments happening in Cyprus. He emphasized the importance of disseminating our findings more widely to expand research trajectories and attract more young scientists to our country. By sharing our results and fostering a collaborative scientific community, we aim to promote innovation and advance the field, ultimately benefiting both local and global communities.
Dr. Zanos presents new data on ketamine’s mechanisms of action at the European University of Cyprus.
Dr. Zanos presented our latest pre-clinical data on the antidepressant mechanisms of action of ketamine during an invited speech at the European University of Cyprus. Our research provides compelling evidence that indirect activation of NMDA receptors, rather than their inhibition, may be the key mechanism responsible for ketamine’s rapid antidepressant effects. This challenges the conventional understanding and opens new avenues for therapeutic intervention.
Utilizing a multidisciplinary approach that integrates behavioral pharmacology, advanced neuroscience techniques, and molecular genetics, our team is unraveling complex neural pathways and molecular processes involved in depression. These innovative studies are not only enhancing our understanding of how ketamine exerts its effects but are also paving the way for the development of next-generation pharmacotherapies.
Our findings have significant implications for the treatment of depression, offering hope for more effective and faster-acting therapies. By leveraging these new insights, we aim to create better therapeutic strategies that can provide relief for individuals suffering from depression, particularly those who have not responded to traditional treatments.
Our postdoctoral researcher, Dr. Georgiou, publishes important study on the genetic links between Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue Inflammation and psychiatric disorders.
Dr. Georgiou, a Marie Curie fellow at the Zanos lab, has published a novel study entitled “Investigating the shared genetic basis and causal relationships between mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue inflammation and psychiatric disorders”. The study employed a two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis using genetic data from over 342,000 FinnGen participants to investigate potential causal relationships between inflammation of the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue, proxied by conditions like tonsillectomy, appendectomy and appendicitis, and psychiatric disorders such as major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders. Surprisingly, their results suggest no direct causal link between these mucosal inflammation proxies and increased risk for psychiatric disorders, despite previous observational evidence linking the two. However, an intriguing moderate inverse genetic correlation was observed between tonsillectomy and major depression, highlighting the need for further research into mediating factors.
For more information, please visit: https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1379922
The Zanos Lab announces affiliation with the Center for Applied Neuroscience in Cyprus.
The Translational Neuropharmacology Lab (Zanos Lab) is announcing its formal affiliation with the Center for Applied Neuroscience (CAN) in Cyprus. This partnership marks an important milestone in our ongoing efforts to advance knowledge in the field of Neuroscience.
Becoming a member of CAN, a research center known for pioneering neuroscience research, recognizes the dedicated efforts and contributions of our team. This affiliation will provide valuable opportunities for collaborative research with leading neuroscientists in Cyprus and worldwide.
Our integration into CAN’s network will facilitate the exchange of ideas and foster an environment for scientific discussion and innovation. The resources and expertise available through this collaboration will enhance our research capabilities, allowing us to explore new areas and make meaningful contributions to Neuroscience.
New Study Led by our postdoctoral fellow, Dr. Onisiforou, uncovers sex-specific molecular signatures in Alzheimer’s Disease.
Our newly published study, led by Dr. Onisiforou and collaborators, unveils importantsex-specific molecular signatures within the hippocampus in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Through meticulous analysis of postmortem samples, we have uncovered distinct gene expression patterns between male and female AD patients. Notably, our findings shed light on potential gender-specific mechanisms underlying AD susceptibility and progression. This research marks a crucial step towards understanding the nuanced interplay between sex and AD pathology, offering valuable insights for the development of tailored therapeutic strategies.
Read more at:
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2024.1345498/full
Our postdoctoral researcher, Dr. Eleftheria Charalambous presents on her fascinating findings about viruses/bacteria and their association with Alzheimer’s Disease.
Our talented postdoctoral researcher, Dr. Eleftheria Charalambous gave a fascinating presentation to peers from the University Medicine Greifswald on her latest findings exploring potential links between viral/bacterial infections and Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Charalambous’ research focuses on microbe-host interactions, including the gut-brain and oral-brain axes, and how they impact immune function, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, brain aging, and neurodegeneration. Leveraging her expertise in multi-omic data integration and high-dimensional analysis, she has uncovered intriguing associations between certain viral and bacterial pathogens and the development of Alzheimer’s pathology, suggesting viral infections may contribute to neuroinflammation that drive the neurodegenerative process. Through her innovative computational/bioinformatics approaches, Eleftheria aims to elucidate the mechanisms by which viruses potentially initiate or exacerbate Alzheimer’s disease progression.
The Zanos lab joins RePo4EU drug repurposing community
The Zanos lab has joined the community of RePo4EU, an industry-level online platform dedicated to validated precision drug repurposing, with a worldwide impact. RePo4EU’s overarching objective is to position this platform as a central data hub, facilitating the exchange of crucial information, providing comprehensive training resources, fostering matchmaking opportunities, and nurturing collaborative initiatives to promote drug repurposing efforts. Check our partnership’s page here:
https://repo4.eu/portfolio/the-translational-neuropharmacology-laboratory-university-of-cyprus/
The Zanos lab welcomes our new ONISILOS Marie Sklodowska Curie fellow, Dr. Andrea Georgiou.
Her proposed case-control study (participants that achieved abstinence for at least 6 months after smoking cessation versus participants that did not achieve abstinence) aims to identify novel genetically-supported drug targets for smoking cessation and to correlate/associate changes in those druggable protein targets with: (a) motivation to quit smoking and (b) vulnerability to relapse following abstinence.
For more information, please visit:
2023
GRANT SUCCESS: Dr. Zanos secures funding (€130.000) for critical laboratory equipment acquisition.
Dr. Zanos has recently secured funding totaling €130.000, dedicated to the acquisition of crucial laboratory equipment. This financial support represents a significant investment in advancing our research capabilities. The funds will be instrumental in acquiring cutting-edge equipment, fostering innovation, and reinforcing our commitment to conducting high-impact research. This development marks a pivotal moment in the continued growth and success of the Translational Neuropharmacology Lab research initiatives, positioning the laboratory for increased productivity and breakthrough discoveries in the field.
CONGRATULATIONS: Our team member, Dr. Mary Haddad, has secured a Marie Skłodowska Curie_CoFund (Onisilos scheme) fellowship (€147.120) with Dr. Zanos as the Supervisor.
Dr. Haddad, a postdoctoral fellow starting in July 2024 in the Zanos lab, received €147,120 in funding by the European Commission to assess the Role of Cytochrome P450 Lipid Mediators in Depression and Neurodegeneration. Immunological factors, proinflammatory mediators, oxidative stress markers, and endocrine dysregulation are implicated in depression pathology. Existing therapies face challenges, urging the need for more effective and safe alternatives. This study will explore the potential of Cytochromes P450 (CYP) enzymes, specifically focusing on their role in oxidative stress and arachidonic acid metabolism. CYP-induced oxidative stress is linked to various pathologies, with limited insight into its role in depression. The study aims to investigate the neuroprotective and antidepressant potential of CYP regulation both in vitro and in vivo, with a focus on depression-relevant pathways, contributing to a better understanding of pathological nerve dysfunction, cognitive impairment, and neuronal injury in depression.
New Publication from the Zanos Lab led by Dr. Anna Onisiforou: Microbial Influences in Alzheimer’s Disease
For decades, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) research has been dominated by the amyloid cascade hypothesis, which positions amyloid-beta (Aβ) accumulation as the primary driver of the disease. However, the consistent failure of Aβ-targeted therapies to demonstrate efficacy, coupled with significant safety concerns, has underscored the critical need to rethink our approach to AD treatment.In our latest…
OUR NEW PRE-PRINT: (2R,6R)-hydroxynorketamine facilitates extinction and prevents emotional impairment and stress-induced reinstatement in morphine abstinent mice.
In the realm of the opioid addiction crisis faced by many parts of the world, a significant challenge is the high relapse rates during periods of abstinence, often triggered by stress and negative emotional states. Our findings advance our understanding of opioid addiction neurobiology and treatment options by exploring the therapeutic potential of drug repurposing with (2R,6R)-hydroxynorketamine (HNK) in opioid addiction, using mice. We first established novel mouse models for examining stress susceptibility and opioid addiction interplay, uniquely enabling us to investigate HNK’s effects across various addiction-related behaviors. Our study indicates that (2R,6R)-HNK has the potential to evolve into a next-generation pharmacotherapy for opioid use disorders, which could revolutionize treatment strategies, particularly by targeting the emotional disturbances that persist through protracted abstinence.
Read more at: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2023.12.07.570550v1Zanos Laboratory secures major grant funding of €600,000
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…
OUR NEW PRE-PRINT: (2R,6R)-hydroxynorketamine facilitates extinction and prevents emotional impairment and stress-induced reinstatement in morphine abstinent mice.
In the realm of the opioid addiction crisis faced by many parts of the world, a significant challenge is the high relapse rates during periods of abstinence, often triggered by stress and negative emotional states. Our findings advance our understanding of opioid addiction neurobiology and treatment options by exploring the therapeutic potential of drug repurposing with (2R,6R)-hydroxynorketamine (HNK) in opioid addiction, using mice. We first established novel mouse models for examining stress susceptibility and opioid addiction interplay, uniquely enabling us to investigate HNK’s effects across various addiction-related behaviors. Our study indicates that (2R,6R)-HNK has the potential to evolve into a next-generation pharmacotherapy for opioid use disorders, which could revolutionize treatment strategies, particularly by targeting the emotional disturbances that persist through protracted abstinence.
Read more at: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2023.12.07.570550v1The Translational Neuropharmacology (Zanos) Lab participates at the Center for Applied Neuroscience 2024 Conference
We are excited to share that Dr. Zanos, Director of the Translational Neuropharmacology Lab, delivered an engaging talk at the 14th Annual Scientific Conference of the Center for Applied Neuroscience (CAN), held at the University of Cyprus. His presentation, titled “From Whiskers to Wisdom: How Rodent Models can Reveal Neural Mechanisms Underlying Decision-Making and Cognitive…
OUR NEW PRE-PRINT: (2R,6R)-hydroxynorketamine facilitates extinction and prevents emotional impairment and stress-induced reinstatement in morphine abstinent mice.
In the realm of the opioid addiction crisis faced by many parts of the world, a significant challenge is the high relapse rates during periods of abstinence, often triggered by stress and negative emotional states. Our findings advance our understanding of opioid addiction neurobiology and treatment options by exploring the therapeutic potential of drug repurposing with (2R,6R)-hydroxynorketamine (HNK) in opioid addiction, using mice. We first established novel mouse models for examining stress susceptibility and opioid addiction interplay, uniquely enabling us to investigate HNK’s effects across various addiction-related behaviors. Our study indicates that (2R,6R)-HNK has the potential to evolve into a next-generation pharmacotherapy for opioid use disorders, which could revolutionize treatment strategies, particularly by targeting the emotional disturbances that persist through protracted abstinence.
Read more at: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2023.12.07.570550v1
NEW BIOINFORMATICS MANUSCRIPT: From Viral Infections to Alzheimer’s Disease: Unveiling the Mechanistic Links Through Systems Bioinformatics.
Viruses Might Influence the Development of Alzheimer’s Disease!!
Scientists have long been curious about the connection between viral infections and the onset of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), a debilitating condition characterized by memory loss and cognitive decline. Here, we used a systems bioinformatics approach to explore the potential roles of various viruses, including Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1), Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV), and others, in the development of AD through the interactions between virus and host proteins. We concluded that viral infections can lead to increased susceptibility for AD development. Our findings could pave the way for the identification of novel strategies to understand and intervene in the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease.
Read more at: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2023.12.05.570187v1
Dr. Zanos presents our latest findings on novel mechanisms underlying ketamine’s antidepressant action.
The Director of the Translational Neuropharmacology Lab, Dr. Zanos, presented our latest data concerning the potential role of NMDA receptor activation underlying ketamine’s antidepressant mechanism of action. This invited talk was a part of the Hellenic Society for Neuroscience (HSfN) conference. Dr. Zanos’s talk centered on revealing the crucial role of NMDA receptor activation in facilitating ketamine’s rapid antidepressant effects. This research illuminates potential pathways for the development of safer and more effective antidepressant interventions.
If you want to learn more about these advancements, read our new manuscript published in the Journal of Neuroscience recently: https://www.jneurosci.org/content/43/6/1038.abstract.
Stay tuned for future advancements in this exciting field.
NEW PUBLICATION: Unraveling the transcriptomic signatures of Parkinson’s Disease and Major Depression using single-cell and bulk data.
Curious to know what Parkinson’s disease and Major depression have in common? So are we! Explore our latest publication, where we analyze single-cell and bulk data to unravel their transcriptomic signatures.
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2023.1273855/full
Dr. Zanos Delivers Invited Lecture to the General Public: “Understanding the Effects of Drugs of Abuse on the Brain and Discovering Innovative Pharmacotherapies”.
We are excited to announce that Dr. Zanos was invited to deliver a special lecture to the general public, shedding light on the profound impact of drugs of abuse on the brain and presenting innovative pharmacotherapies.
In this engaging and informative presentation, Dr. Zanos shared his expertise on the subject, providing valuable insights into the neurological effects of substance abuse and the cutting-edge pharmacological approaches that may hold the key to addressing these challenges.
Our commitment to public education and raising awareness about critical issues at the intersection of neuroscience and pharmacology is at the core of our mission.
Dr. Zanos Presents Groundbreaking Research at the Mediterranean Neuroscience Society Conference.
Dr. Zanos recently presented our laboratory’s groundbreaking findings at the Mediterranean Neuroscience Society conference held in Tunis (https://www.medneuroscisociety.org/mns2023_info). His presentation focused on the novel discoveries surrounding the paradigm-shifting mechanisms responsible for the rapid-antidepressant efficacy of ketamine and other potential compounds currently in clinical phase development.
This presentation highlights the significant contributions of our laboratory to the field of neuroscience and reinforces our commitment to advancing the understanding of rapid-acting antidepressant treatments. We are proud of Dr. Zanos’ dedication and the team’s exceptional work in this important area of research.
Stay tuned for more updates on our latest research and achievements.
Dr. Andrea Georgiou receives €147,120 by the Marie Skłodowska Curie_CoFund (Onisilos scheme).
We are proud of our lab member, Dr. Andrea Georgiou, who has been awarded a competitive Marie Skłodowska Curie_CoFund fellowship, with Dr. Zanos as the Supervisor. She will be identifying genetically-supported drug targets for smoking cessation by assessing participants who have successfully maintained abstinence for at least six months. This study will also explore the correlation between these drug targets and motivation to quit smoking, nicotine dependence, and vulnerability to relapse. Potential targets will be identified using drug repurposing Mendelian randomization and confirmed by assessing gene methylation levels.
For more information, please visit: https://www.ucy.ac.cy/onisilos/wp-content/uploads/sites/169/2023/12/A.G-ONISILOS-MSCA-COFUND-FELLOW.pdf
2022
EXCITING NEWS: Drs. Zanos and Onisiforou secure $100,000 in funding from the Infectious Diseases Society of America.
In our research initiative, we will explore viral-mediated pathogenic mechanisms to understand their potential involvement in the development of comorbid Alzheimer’s Disease and Major Depression. Employing Systems Bioinformatics, our investigation will involve a thorough analysis of the complex interactions between viral agents and the molecular pathways associated with both conditions. By integrating diverse biological datasets and utilizing advanced computational techniques, we aim to unravel the complex molecular processes that may contribute to the co-occurrence of these conditions. This multidisciplinary approach, grounded in Systems Bioinformatics, holds the promise of revealing novel insights into the interplay between viral infections and the pathogenesis of comorbid Alzheimer’s Disease and Major Depression. Ultimately, our research seeks to contribute to the development of innovative therapeutic strategies and preventive interventions.
NEW GRANT: Dr. Zanos has successfully secured €199,920 in funding from the Cyprus Research and Innovation Foundation for a new project.
Exciting developments are underway in our new research initiative, where we are delving into the promising realm of drug repurposing. Specifically, our project focuses on the repurposing of ketamine to assess its efficacy in preventing relapse among patients battling with comorbid mood and opioid-use disorders. This innovative approach aims to leverage the therapeutic potential of ketamine in a novel context.
Beyond evaluating the effectiveness of ketamine in averting relapse, our study also aims to unravel the neurobiophysiological mechanisms underlying through which ketamine exerts its effects, aiming to comprehend how it prolongs periods of abstinence and acts as a formidable barrier against the resurgence of opioid dependence.
What makes our study particularly groundbreaking is that it signifies a pioneering milestone for clinical research in Cyprus. This project is the first-ever interventional clinical trial with drug administration of its kind in the country, highlighting our commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and therapeutic possibilities in the field of substance use disorders.
Dr. Zanos receives start-up funding from the University of Cyprus to enhance his research activities.
We are delighted to announce that our lab has secured a start-up funding of €50,000 from the University of Cyprus. This funding will be utilized to acquire a 128-channel EEG for the pursuit of our EU-funded clinical study, which aims to identify biomarkers of nicotine addiction.
NEW PUBLICATION: NMDA Receptor Activation-Dependent Antidepressant-Relevant Behavioral and Synaptic Actions of Ketamine.
Check out our new publication in the Journal of Neuroscience: https://www.jneurosci.org/content/43/6/1038
The anesthetic and antidepressant drug ketamine is well-characterized as an NMDA receptor (NMDAR) antagonist; though, the relevance and full impact of this pharmacology to its antidepressant actions is unclear. We found that NMDAR activation, which occurs downstream of their initial actions, is necessary for the beneficial effects of ketamine and several other putative antidepressant compounds. As such, promoting NMDAR signaling, or other approaches that enhance NMDAR-dependent long-term potentiation (LTP)-like synaptic potentiation in vivo may be an effective antidepressant strategy directly, or acting synergistically with other drug or interventional treatments.
2021
GREAT NEWS: Dr. Zanos receives a prestigious Marie Skłodowska Curie Individual Fellowship (€145,941) to identify novel biomarkers predicting nicotine relapse.
Our project aims to provide insights into nicotine addiction and improve treatment outcomes. By analyzing heart rate variability (as a proxy of emotion regulation ability) in response to psychosocial stress, our team aims to investigate whether emotion regulation ability prior to nicotine abstinence can have predictive implications for maintaining abstinence. Additionally, the study will assess changes in neural activity using EEG spectral analysis and coherence between brain regions to identify potential indicators of relapse vulnerability in chronic smokers undergoing psychosocial stress before quitting. The investigation also includes an examination of EEG oscillations during a 24-hour abstinence from smoking to explore their potential role in predicting treatment outcomes. Lastly, the project will evaluate the predictive value of reciprocal interactions between stress reactivity, emotion regulation ability, and synchronized neural activity prior to smoking cessation in determining nicotine relapse vulnerability. This research approach is expected to greatly contribute to our understanding of addiction mechanisms and enhance the development of more effective smoking cessation strategies.
2018
BREAKING NEWS: Dr. Zanos awarded $70,000 Brain and Behavior Research Foundation Young Investigator Grant.
We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Zanos has been awarded a prestigious $70,000 Brain and Behavior Foundation Young Investigator Grant. The grant will support his groundbreaking research project titled, “Effects of Ketamine’s Metabolite (2R,6R)-HNK on Opioid Withdrawal-Induced Emotional Impairment and Drug-Seeking Reinstatement” (NARSAD Young Investigator Grant). This initiative holds promise for unraveling critical insights into the complex interplay between ketamine’s metabolite and emotional impairment during opioid withdrawal, paving the way for innovative strategies in addressing drug-seeking reinstatement. Dr. Zanos’ dedication to advancing our understanding of neuropsychiatric disorders is further underscored by this significant recognition from the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation.
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