Effects of binge alcohol drinking on synaptic computing in the nucleus accumbens

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This admistrative supplement research grant is seeking funding to train Timmy Le, a UMass Medical School graduate student eligible under the NOT-OD-20-031 Underrepresented Categories B and C. The ambition of this administrative supplement grant proposal is to identify the cellular underpinnings of the early transition between casual to sustain drinking using drinking-in-the-dark model. Over the course of this project, Timmy le will learn to use and implement a variety of complementary approaches, including mouse genetics, optogenetics, behavior and biophysical approaches to test the overarching hypothesis that computing of the synaptic strength of cortical and amygdala inputs (a phenomenon also known as synaptic gating) is a mechanism enabling nucleus accumbens medium spiny neurons to integrate cognitive and emotional information, and is modulated by alcohol exposure to control consumption. In addition to acquiring new technical skills, he will also receive intense training in conceptual aspects of drugs of abuse and in oral and written presentation skills.