research overview
- The focus of Dr. Bachtell's research is to understand the mechanisms involved in drug craving and relapse. Work in Dr. Bachtell's laboratory involves the study of molecular, cellular and systems level analyses of the mesocorticolimbic dopamine system and how these different levels of study work together to contribute to drug relapse. Dr. Bachtell is also interested in how other brain systems influence the mesocorticolimbic system to regulate relapse behavior. This work involves the study of body’s stress systems, memory and learning systems and information processing systems. The goal of Dr. Bachtell's research is to better understand the biological basis of the disease and to identify major biological targets for potential therapeutic intervention to promote abstinence.