Research Description: I am investigating the role of GABA neuron plasticity in the VTA. GABA cells inhibit dopamine cells which signal reward. I perform whole-cell patch clamping on VTA GABA neurons in adult and adolescent rodents exposed to THC or cocaine. These experiments investigate the mechanism of GABA plasticity and their role in mediating reward and addiction and if age modifies this mechanism.
Isaac Ostlund
PhD Student
Edwards Lab - Past Graduate Student