Christie Fowler, PhD

Assistant Professor, Department of Neurobiology and Behavior

My research focuses on elucidating the neurobiological mechanisms underlying motivated behaviors and motivational deficits associated with neuropsychiatric disorders. We are currently working to define the role of extracellular epigenetic signaling mechanisms and brain circuitries involved in the development and maintenance of drug dependence. Of note, we have recently found that THC modulates the release of extracellular vesicles containing miRNAs from neural-derived cells. This line of research is currently being extended to examine the impact of cannabinoids, including THC and CBD, on extracellular signaling mechanisms both in the brain and periphery. We are also working to develop a vapor cannabinoid self-administration protocol to subsequently examine the impact of volitional drug intake on neural circuit function during prenatal, adolescence and adult developmental ages. Further information about our research can be found at the Fowler laboratory website.