Ariel Deutch Lab

Our lab holds to a dopaminocentric view of the universe, directing our efforts to the involvement of central dopamine systems in neuropsychiatric disorders. We are particularly interested in areas of intersection and commonalities of dysfunction between Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia. For example, studies examine both the therapeutic and side effects of antipsychotic drugs used to treat schizophrenia; treatment with many of these drugs is accompanied by extrapyramidal (parkinsonian) side effects. Conversely, studies of dendritic remodeling in striatal neurons in Parkinson's disease have led to new studies of the mechanisms subserving dendritic changes in prefrontal cortical pyramidal cells in schizophrenia. Still further studies have led to improved definition of the claustrum through proteomic studies. These complementary sets of studies lend some semblance of focus to our efforts, while also preventing us from becoming complacent, bored, or too stubborn.