University of California-Davis · PhysiologyWhistler Addiction Lab
Jennifer L Whistler · Davis, California
Research Focus
Dr. Jennifer L. Whistler's lab focuses on understanding how opioid drugs work in the brain, particularly how they can lead to addiction and other long-term behavioral changes. By studying genetically modified mice, the lab investigates the differences in brain responses to opioids that may contribute to substance use disorders, aiming to separate harmful effects from beneficial ones like pain relief. This research is crucial for finding better treatments for those struggling with opioid dependence.
opioid dependencesubstance use disorderopioid receptorsneurobiologybehavioral flexibilityaddiction mechanisms
Research Aims
4AIM 01Investigate the neural mechanisms involved in opioid addiction.
AIM 02Examine behavioral changes that occur after prolonged opioid use.
AIM 03Identify critical differences in brain responses between modified and wild-type mice.
AIM 04Develop insights into reducing the risks of substance use disorders from opioid treatments.
Skills the Lab Values
genetic engineeringmouse modelsbehavioral assaysmolecular biology techniquesbiochemical assaysdata analysis with R or Python
Output against the department
Publications123bottom 37% of dept.179th of 286
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations8.4ktop 40% of dept.114th of 286
this lab
most citedleast cited
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