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The Neuroscience of Fentanyl Addiction

Details

How do fentanyl and other addictive drugs affect the brain’s reward system? Join Christian Lüscher, M.D., a neurologist and professor of neuroscience at the University of Geneva renowned for his research on neural mechanisms of motivated behavior and drug addiction, at the Allen Institute on Wednesday, July 31 to learn about some of the latest research in this field.

Pre-registration for this event is now closed.
In person walk ups may be available on a first come, first served basis. Thank you.

Jul 31, 2024

Allen Institute

Time

5:00PM-6:00PM PT

Audience

Doctors, General public, Postdocs, Scientists

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The Neuroscience of Addiction

Leading neurologist and neuroscientist, Dr. Lüscher will present on the cellular mechanisms that underlie drug reinforcement, dependence, and addiction at this public event suitable for members of the drug policy and scientific research community. He will review how fentanyl and addictive drugs affect the brain’s reward system and will argue that understanding the dysfunction of brain circuits in addiction can help pave the way for novel, effective treatments. 

Featured Speaker

Christian Lüscher, M.D. is a neurologist and full professor of neuroscience at the University of Geneva, renowned for his research on neural mechanisms of motivated behavior and drug addiction. His work has identified “drug-evoked synaptic plasticity” as a cellular basis of addiction and has pioneered “optogenetically inspired deep brain stimulation” (OptoDBS.ch) protocols. Lüscher’s career began with his MD training in Lausanne and Berne, and postdoctoral work at UCSF, leading to significant contributions in synaptic plasticity. Since establishing his lab in Geneva, where he became a full professor in 2009, he has combined research with clinical practice in movement disorders. Lüscher has published over 90 original articles and received numerous prestigious awards, including the Cloëtta Prize and the Otto Naegeli Prize. As a mentor, he has guided over 50 graduate students and postdocs, many of whom have become leading scientists. His dedication extends to serving on various scientific committees and as president of the basic science section of the Geneva medical faculty from 2019-2023, significantly impacting the field of neuroscience. 

Christian Lüscher


Venue

This event will be held at the Allen Institute, a 270,000-square-foot life sciences building, located in the South Lake Union neighborhood of Seattle. The building is purpose-built for life science research and facilitates our trademark team science approach amid abundant natural light and with stunning views of the city.

Upon arrival at the Allen Institute, check in at the registration desk located in the lobby and you will be directed to the Auditorium. For more information on transportation or nearby parking recommendations, please click below.

Getting to the Allen Institute

 


Additional Information

Please contact events@alleninstitute.org with questions.

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