Research

Our research program seeks to define the neural substrates that promote resilience to the detrimental/pathological effects of stressful life events. Activation of neural, endocrine and behavioral responses to stress is necessary for survival. However, with chronic or repeated exposure to stress, activation of these responses becomes maladaptive and drive the etiology or progression of affective disorders, anxiety disorders including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and inflammatory disorders. Thus, one branch of our research program seeks to define the neural substrates that permit adaptation to repeated stress. However, only some stressed individuals are vulnerable to developing stress-related illness while others are resilient. The second branch of our research program investigates the factors that contribute to vulnerability in certain individuals and resilience in others. We are also intensively engaged in collaborations with clinicians to translate our findings from animal models into human subjects undergoing various types of challenges.