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
Unveil the mechanisms mediating N/OFQ and CRF modulation of infralimbic function and the unique electrophysiological signature of neurons that project to the amygdala and their role in ethanol withdrawal
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
