Our laboratory is engaged in studies of the molecular mechanisms of alcohol action, alcohol tolerance and dependence that involve the function, expression, regulation and molecular biology of GABA receptors in the CNS.
We are studying the regulation of GABA-A receptors to determine the precise mechanisms that account for CNS hyperexcitability during ethanol withdrawal. Our studies focus on gene expression, receptor trafficking, phosphorylation and receptor function.
Endogenous neuroactive GABAergic steroids contribute to many behavioral and electrophysiological effects of ethanol in rodents. We are investigating the mechanisms and physiological relevance of ethanol-induced increases in these steroids.
We are also investigating whether neuroactive steroids in brain link stress, anxiety and excessive alcohol intake, including studies that focus on neuroadaptive changes brought about by chronic alcohol exposure.
Recent Publications:
Kumar, S., Khisti, R.T., and Morrow, A.L.
(2005) Regulation of native GABAA receptors by PKC and protein phosphatase
activity.
Psychopharmacology (Berl) 183(2): 241-7. Abstract
Porcu, P., Grant, K.A., Green, H.L., Rogers, L.S., and Morrow, A.L. (2005) Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and ethanol modulation of deoxycorticosterone levels in cynomolgus monkeys.
Psychopharmacology (Berl) [epub] Abstract
Khisti, R.T., Boyd, K.N., Kumar, S., and Morrow, A.L. (2005)
Systemic ethanol administration elevates deoxycorticosterone levels and chronic
ethanol exposure attenuates this response.
Brain Res 1049(1): 104-11. Abstract
Grobin, A.C., VanDoren, M.J., Porrino, L.J., and Morrow, A.L. (2005) Cortical 3 alpha-hydroxy-5 alpha-pregnan-20-one levels after acute administration of Delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cocaine and morphine.
Psychopharmacology (Berl) 179(3): 544-50. Abstract
