Dr. Avishek Adhikari's lab at UCLA studies how specific brain cells regulate feeding behaviors. They focus on understanding the neural circuits that control food-seeking and consumption, especially in the context of disorders like obesity and anorexia. By investigating the role of GABAergic cells in the midbrain, the lab aims to uncover new insights that could lead to innovative treatments for eating disorders.

Dr. Tiffany Cheing Ho's research focuses on understanding the biological mechanisms related to depression in adolescents, especially why some young individuals do not respond to common antidepressant medications. By studying inflammatory responses and brain chemistry in depressed teens during social stress situations, her lab aims to identify factors that could help predict treatment outcomes. The ultimate goal is to develop better therapeutic approaches for adolescents struggling with depression that does not improve with standard treatments.

Dr. Bridget L Callaghan's lab at UCLA investigates how early life experiences, particularly moving up from poverty, affect cognitive health and Alzheimer's Disease risk later in life. The research focuses on understanding how stress related to social mobility impacts brain health, especially in young women. By examining inflammation, gut microbiome changes, and cognitive outcomes, the lab aims to uncover the complex relationships between socioeconomic status, health, and brain function.

Dr. Alicia Izquierdo's lab at UCLA focuses on understanding how the brain learns and adapts in uncertain environments, particularly in individuals with Substance Use Disorder. By examining the interactions between the amygdala and different areas of the prefrontal cortex, the lab is working to uncover how these brain regions influence decision-making and behavioral adjustments. This research aims to develop new insights and methods for addressing issues related to learning and behavior in the context of addiction.

Kate Wassum's lab focuses on understanding how chronic stress influences habits and decision-making processes in the brain. By investigating the pathways in the amygdala and their connections to other areas of the brain, the lab aims to uncover the mechanisms behind goal-directed learning and how these mechanisms can be disrupted in various mental health conditions. This research has the potential to inform treatment strategies for substance use disorders and other psychiatric diseases.

Dr. Jennifer A. Sumner's lab focuses on understanding how evidence-based treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can affect cardiovascular disease risk and overall health outcomes. They utilize a large database of veterans' electronic health records to investigate the relationship between PTSD treatment, symptom improvement, and cardiovascular health. The goal is to uncover potential interventions that can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases among individuals with PTSD.

Dr. Michelle Craske's research focuses on innovative ways to help people overcome specific phobias and related anxiety disorders. By utilizing advanced brain imaging technology, her lab explores methods to reduce fear responses without the distress often associated with traditional exposure therapy. This could open new avenues for treating various fear-related conditions effectively and compassionately.