Fabio Cardoso CruzFábio Cardoso Cruz, an esteemed figure in the field of neuropsychopharmacology, has dedicated his academic and professional pursuits to unravelling the intricate neurobiology of drug use disorders. With a primary focus on elucidating the molecular mehanisms driving drug-seeking relapse, particularly influenced by contextual cues, Cruz has delved into the multifaceted effects of stress on susceptibility to addiction. His research extends to investigating sex differences in responses to drugs and stress, as well as understanding the long-term consequences of early drug exposure on brain function, escalating the risk of addiction. Utilizing an innovative combination of optogenetic and chemogenetic tools alongside transgenic rodent models, Cruz and his team have made significant strides in shedding light on the biological underpinnings of addiction behaviors.Moreover, Cruz has expanded his research into proteomics, delving into metabolomics and transcriptomics of single cells. His utilization of sophisticated techniques such as immunohistochemistry, fluorescence, FACS, and western blotting has been pivotal in advancing the understanding of addiction.In the realm of animal models, Cruz has employed operant self-administration, the ABA renewal, and conditioning place preference paradigms to gain insights into addiction behaviors. This comprehensive methodological approach underscores his commitment to cutting-edge research and addressing the complexities of drug use disorders.Driven by an insatiable curiosity and a profound dedication to contributing meaningful insights, Fábio Cardoso Cruz aims not only to advance the scientific community's understanding of addiction but also to pave the way for the development of more effective interventions. Through his research and mentorship, he aspires to inspire the next generation of scientists to explore the uncharted frontiers of neuropsychopharmacology. Read More Read Less