The CRPP Synapse, Trauma, and Addiction is a UMZH funded consortium that focuses on understanding and manipulating memory plasticity in the context of stress, trauma spectrum disorders, and substance use disorders.
By activating and pharmacologically weakening trauma-and drug- related memories using MMP-9 inhibitors, e.g., doxycycline and minocycline, our research aims to modify synaptic plasticity to potentially improve treatments for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Substance Use Disorder (SUD).

Our research investigates the mechanistic overlaps between PTSD and SUD, proposing that exposure to one can prime the development of the other. This hypothesis is tested through animal studies and human trials, where we track memory patterns in patients to refine treatment strategies and timings. We also conduct a randomized clinical trial to assess the effectiveness of minocycline in weakening trauma- and drug-related memories in both PTSD and SUD populations.

Complementary animal studies explore the potential of minocycline and other related drugs to treat these disorders. Using advanced technologies, we explore the synaptic changes specific to these disorders, extending our findings to trauma memory and drug craving neurons, and assessing the impact of genetic modifications on these processes.

Our consortium aims to leverage these scientific insights to benefit patients and train the next generation of clinician-scientists.

Workpackage-Human

Workpackage-Animal