Alex Tsobanoudis

Mary Gates Research Scholar, Winter 2022

Research Project: Chemogenetic Activation of D2 MSNs and its Effect on the Behavioral Economics of Cocaine-Seeking

Project Description: Using transgenic rats and Cre-Lox recombination, we specifically expressed the designer receptor hM3Dq to manipulate neuronal activity within D2 dopamine receptor medium spiny neurons and examine the effect on reward-seeking behavior through behavioral assay.

What have you learned throughout your research project?

Projects shift and change all the time and you have to be prepared to adapt with them.

What piece of advice do you have for future applicants?

Be ready to flow with whatever you are doing, whether that be a project or in life.