Use single-cell whole-brain imaging of immediate-early genes to identify the network mechanisms associated with pharmacological interventions and circuit-specific interventions that decrease addiction-like behaviors during abstinence
Provide further knowledge of the neuroadaptations within the infralimbic cortex due to alcohol dependence with a focus on the hypocretin (Hcrt), dynorphin (Dyn) and corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) transmission
Probe the relevance of astrocytic metabotropic glutamate receptor 3 as an important regulator of glutamate homeostasis in the medial prefrontal cortex that can be targeted to reduce excessive alcohol drinking
