The Neuroimaging Research Branch at the National Institute on Drug Abuse
About the NRB
The Neuroimaging Research Branch attempts to uncover the neural underpinnings of human drug addiction using functional MRI, coupled with other techniques, in both human and animal populations. As a group we have paired behavioral, cognitive, pharmacological and genetic analyses with cutting-edge imaging methods including resting-state and task-based BOLD fMRI, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), MR spectroscopy (MRS), and EEG. Our scientific researchers work alongside a team of dedicated signal processors who are constantly refining the process of quantitative neuroimaging data analysis. The long-term objective of our research is to identify those at high risk for drug dependence, to inform the development of effective behavioral and pharmacological treatments for addiction, and to understand individual differences in response to both drug itself and to treatment options.
Contact Us Tel: (443) 740-2649 Fax: (443) 740-2753 Email: Neuroimaging@mail.nih.gov
251 Bayview Blvd, Suite 200 Baltimore, MD 21224
People at the NRB
http://irp.drugabuse.gov/NRB/people.php
Our Research Projects
http://irp.drugabuse.gov/NRB/clinical.php
Clinical Projects
Our human cognitive neuroscience and psychopharmacology group is applying multimodal MRI tools (BOLD signal activation, resting state functional connectivity, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), MR spectroscopy (MRS), EEG, real time fMRI biofeedback, and quantitative morphometry) to examine the biological predisposition towards and acute consequences of addiction. We are also developing novel treatment assessments and interventions using neuroimaging biomarkers.
Xiaochu Zhang, Ph.D. Post-doctoral Visiting Fellow
http://irp.drugabuse.gov/NRB/zhang.php
I am a postdoctoral visiting fellow in the Neuroimaging Research Branch at the National Institute on Drug Abuse. I received my B.S. (2000) and Ph.D. (2005) in biophysics at the University of Science and Technology of China. In 2005 I joined Dr. Elliot A. Stein's laboratory. My research interests have focused on studying the neural mechanism of addiction combining functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Electroencephalogram techniques.
Investigating Drug Abuse: Brain Imaging
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaifOWSKjdA