Drug addiction is the most costly neuropsychiatric disorder faced by our nation. Acute and repeated exposure to drugs produces neuroadaptation and long-term memory of the experience, but the cellular and molecular processes involved are only partially understood.

The primary objective of the proposed workshop is to provide an intense dialogue of the fundamentals, state-of-the-art advances and major gaps in the cell and molecular biology of drug addiction. Targeted to new or experienced investigators, the workshop will combine formal presentations and informal discussions to convey the merits and excitement of cellular and molecular approaches to drug addiction research. With the advent of genomics and proteomics, an extraordinary opportunity now exists to develop comprehensive models of neuroadaptative processes fundamental to addiction, withdrawal, craving, relapse to drug use and general brain function.

A range of disciplines and topics will be represented, including:

• Noninvasive brain imaging to identify drug targets and adaptive processes

• Neuroadaptative processes at the molecular and cellular level

• Neural networks and their modulation

• Relevance of genotype to susceptibility and drug response

• Tolerance and adaptation at the cellular level

• Approaches to exploiting the daunting volume generated by neuroinformatics

This workshop will provide an integrated view of current and novel research on neuroadaptive responses to addiction, foster discussion on collaboration and integration, provide critical information needed to construct a model of addiction as a disease and novel molecular targets for biological treatments. Beyond the plane of scientific endeavor, the information is vital for formulating public policy and for enlightening the public on the neurobiological consequences of drug use and addiction.

This workshop is designed to generate interest in this level of analysis, open conduits for collaborations and present novel routes to investigating the neurobiology of addictive drugs.

The course will be held on the academic island of Isola San Servolo, Venice, Italy (photos). The private island is less than a ten minute waterbus ride with frequent service from central Venice (transportation). All participants will be provided with accommodation on the island, in walking distance from the lecture hall and cafeteria.

This course will be partially supported with funds provided by the US National Institute of Drug Abuse (Grant#  5 R13 DA019791)

Scholarship funds are available for partial support of tuition, room and board on a merit basis. Please apply in writing when you apply stating the need for financial aid.