Hosted by the Physiology and Pharmacology Department.

Target Audience

Des Moines University faculty, staff, and students.

Objectives

1. Explain some of the known cellular and molecular pathophysiological hallmarks of major depressive disorder (MDD).
2. Identify brain areas and cellular mechanisms targeted by current depression research.
3. Describe usage of molecular biology techniques in combination with preclinical behavioral models in identifying new therapeutic targets for treatment of MDD.
4. Define the role of negative regulation of MAPK signaling pathway in the development of depressive state and antidepressant treatment.

Speaker

Vanja Duric, PhD
Assistant Professor, Physiology and Pharmacology, Des Moines University

Depression is one the most prevalent and debilitating psychiatric illnesses.  Dr. Duric's research is focused on characterization of central nervous system (CNS) mechanisms involved in the development and maintenance of depressive state.  His research utilizes a variety of cellular, molecular and pharmacological approaches in combination with preclinical behavioral models to identify potential biomarkers and novel therapeutic targets for treatment of depression.  In addition, Dr. Duric is also interested in studying neural mechanisms linking depression and other CNS illnesses, such as chronic pain and stroke.