Dr. Deutch’s research interests center on the dysfunction of the neurotransmitter dopamine in brain and behavior disorders. His lab focuses primarily on basic science (preclinical) studies relating to schizophrenia and Parkinson’s disease. He and his colleagues study the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic and side effects of antipsychotic drugs. They investigate the mechanisms by which neurons that use two neurotransmitters, dopamine and the peptide neurotensin, regulate GABA-containing interneurons in the cortex and the mechanisms of action of hallucinogens in widely activating the cortex. Other studies focus broadly on Parkinson’s disease and the loss of dendritic spines, thorny spine-like protuberances on the processes of neurons that receive dopamine inputs.

Dr. Deutch received his B.A. degree from Vanderbilt and a Ph.D. in psychology from the University of Georgia. He was on the faculty at Yale School of Medicine prior to joining Vanderbilt.