Overview
We are currently developing a model system for the investigation of physiological effects of acute ethanol. This model utilizes a rat brain slice preparation incorporating the amygdala, a brain region associated with anxiety and ethanol-induced anxiolysis. We anticipate expanding this model to investigate effects of other anxiolytic agents and to elucidate the basic mechanisms underlying anxiogenesis.
We are also currently examining the neurobiological basis of seizure-induced memory disruption using similar in vitro electrophysiological techniques. Full development of this model should provide important information relevant to basic mechanisms of memory. We anticipate expanding this model to include behavioral correlates.
We are also currently examining the neurobiological basis of seizure-induced memory disruption using similar in vitro electrophysiological techniques. Full development of this model should provide important information relevant to basic mechanisms of memory. We anticipate expanding this model to include behavioral correlates.
Current Duke Appointments & Affiliations
Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
·
2024 - Present
Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Adult Psychiatry & Psychology,
Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences
Faculty Network Member of the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences
·
2008 - Present
Duke Institute for Brain Sciences,
University Institutes and Centers
Recent Scholarly Works
DNA methylation signatures associated with bipolar disorder in peripheral blood improve prediction models.
Journal article EBioMedicine · June 2026 BACKGROUND: Bipolar disorder (BD) is a major mood disorder influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. While DNA methylation from peripheral tissues can reflect both genetic and environmental influences and reveal insights into disease biology, i ... Full text Link to item CitePost-traumatic stress disorder moderates the association between BrainAge acceleration and GrimAge acceleration.
Journal article Neurobiol Aging · May 29, 2026 Individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are at higher risk for age-related physical comorbidities, such as cardiovascular disorders, and exhibit accelerated epigenetic and brain aging. The present study examined PTSD as a moderator of the as ... Full text Open Access Link to item CiteEthanol effects on excitability of corticotropin-releasing factor-expressing neurons in the medial subdivision of the mouse central amygdala nucleus.
Journal article Alcohol Clin Exp Res (Hoboken) · January 2026 BACKGROUND: Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) neurons in the medial subdivision of the central amygdala (CeM) are a distinct subpopulation of neurons in a critical brain region modulating ethanol actions. Previous studies have demonstrated enhanced rele ... Full text Link to item CiteRecent Grants
Cost Effectiveness of Combined Contingency Management and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Alcohol Use Disorder
ResearchCo Investigator · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2019 - 2025Mobile Contingency Management for Concurrent Abstinence from Alcohol and Smoking
ResearchCo Investigator · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2017 - 2021IPA - Qiang Li
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center · 2018 - 2020View All Grants
Education
University of Virginia ·
1986
M.D.
University of Virginia ·
1986
M.D.
University of Virginia ·
1986
Ph.D.