Neuroimaging Research Branch
Brain Imaging Section
Mission Statement
The mission of the Neuroimaging Research Branch (NRB) is to develop and use neuroimaging techniques for the elucidation of neural substrates that contribute to and result from substance abuse. NRB uses positron emission tomography (PET), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and functional MRI to assess brain structure and function in human volunteers and laboratory animals. Extensive neuropsychological assessment is also used to interpret brain imaging data. Neuroanatomical systems, cognitive deficiencies, and molecular mechanisms involved in the predisposition to and pathogenesis of addiction are thus identified and characterized. Consistent with its mission, NRB’s research program involves developing new strategies and techniques, e.g., identifying and developing, preclinically and clinically, new PET imaging agents, to optimize neuroimaging methods for identifying the molecular bases of drug abuse.
Program Areas
• Characterization of abnormalities in brain function that contribute to the development or the maintenance of drug dependence.
• Development of new PET and SPECT imaging agents for receptors related to drug abuse (e.g., nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and cannabinoid receptors)
Name: Elliot Stein, Ph.D.
Title: Director, Neuroimaging Research Branch
Telephone Number: (410) 550 1440 ext. 12
Synopsis of Research
Current research focuses on the role of nicotinic receptors in the abuse of illicit drugs. Ongoing studies in the branch related to this interest include the development of PET and SPECT neuroimaging agents for nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). A SPECT radioligand, which was synthesized and developed by branch staff, has been used in a collaborative study to successfully image nAChRs in human volunteers. Likewise, we will soon begin the assessment of a PET radioligand for nAChRs, which was also synthesized and developed by branch staff, in human volunteers. Future studies will use PET imaging to assay densities of nAChRs in smoking and drug abusing human populations and to measure cerebral metabolic rates for glucose in twins discordant for nicotine use. Work continues on the identification and development of new radioligands nAChRs as well.
Other current work involves a longitudinal study of adolescents at risk for drug abuse. This study is designed to assess cognitive function and behavioral/psychiatric factors that predispose individuals to smoking and other drug abusing behaviors. Current animal studies assess the effect of nicotine pretreatment on reward from various classes of abused drugs.
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Neuroimaging Research Branch
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