Dr. Renshaw's work is centered on the use of magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to identify changes in brain chemistry that are associated with mood and substance abuse disorders. These observations are used to identify novel therapies. His current clinical/MRS trials are focused on the use of citicoline as a treatment for methamphetamine dependence, creatine as a treatment for depression, and uridine as a treatment for bipolar disorder. In addition, the Renshaw laboratory is exploring the surprisingly strong association between suicide rates and altitude of residence. The underlying hypothesis is that brain metabolic changes associated with altitude increase the prevalence and severity of mood disorders.

Dr. Renshaw was Research Director and then Director of the McLean Hospital Brain Imaging Center and was on the faculty of Harvard Medical School prior to joining the University of Utah.