Dzung Le

The focus of our studies is to understand the neurochemical mechanisms underlying the effects of stress on relapse to alcohol. Presently, the role of Corticotropin Releasing Factor(CRF) and serotonin on reinstatement of alcohol seeking are being studied. Another major line of work is the interaction between alcohol and nicotine. We have found that nicotine can increase alcohol consumption as well as promote relaps eto alcohol in our animal models. We are currently investigated the influence of exposure to nicotine during adolescent period on subsequent development of abuse to nicotine and alcohol.