Amy Arnsten, PhD
Albert E. Kent Professor of Neuroscience and Professor of PsychologyCards
About
Research
Overview
The Arnsten Lab studies molecular influences on the higher cognitive functions of the prefrontal cortex (PFC), with the overarching goal of developing rational treatments for cognitive disorders and mental illness. The lab uses a multi-disciplinary approach to understand mechanisms influencing working memory at the cellular and behavioral levels. Research has focused on how the arousal pathways rapidly alter PFC network strength through intracellular signaling mechanisms, a process termed Dynamic Network Connectivity. Our data explain how exposure to stress and/or inflammation causes the rapid loss of PFC cognitive abilities, and how genetic mutations in molecules that regulate these pathways can lead to symptoms of mental illness. Dysregulation of these pathways with advancing age leads to loss of neuronal firing, cognitive impairments,and increased vulnerability for degeneration including tau pathology in Alzheimer's disease. Understanding these mechanisms has led to successful new treatments for patients with PFC dysfunction, including medications for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, long-COVID and delirium.
Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)
Academic Achievements and Community Involvement
Links & Media
Media
News
- August 05, 2024Source: CNN
You really can think so hard it hurts. Here's what to do about it
- August 05, 2024Source: CNN
You really can think so hard it hurts. Here's what to do about it | CNN
- June 10, 2024
Study Reveals How Calcium Channel Mutations Lead to Cognitive Dysfunction
- June 05, 2024
Four Faculty Invited to Speak at Cold Spring Harbor's 2024 Schizophrenia and Related Disorders Course