Neuropharmacology Program
This program supports research aimed at understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms of action of psychotherapeutic drugs in vitro and in vivo, as well as research aimed at identifying novel targets for therapeutic intervention in the treatment of mental disorders. Supported research includes studies of the structure, function, and regulation of CNS receptors, transporters, ion channels, neuropeptides, and neuromodulators; interactions between neurotransmitter systems in neuronal populations and circuits relevant to mental disorders; molecular mechanisms of ligand-receptor interactions; permeability and transport of drugs across the blood brain barrier; and the effects of chronic drug treatment on gene expression and function. Areas of interest include:
- Identification and validation of novel molecular targets in model systems.
- Preclinical biomarkers of therapeutic drug action in model systems using genomic, metabolomic, and/or proteomic approaches.
- Effects of psychotherapeutic drugs on the neural circuitry underlying mood, cognition, and motivation in model systems.
- Novel molecular approaches to study the biology of gene targets implicated in the pathophysiology of mental disorders.
- Mechanisms of drug action at key transition points across the lifespan in model systems.
This program seeks to support a broad spectrum of investigator initiated projects on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying psychotherapeutic drug action. Applicants are strongly encouraged to discuss their proposals with the institute contact listed below prior to the submission of their applications to ascertain that their proposed work is aligned with NIMH funding priorities.
Contact
Laurie Nadler, Ph.D.
Program Chief
6001 Executive Boulevard, Room 7184, MSC 9641
301-443-5288, lnadler@mail.nih.gov
