Leveraging Novel Concepts of Receptor Biology Toward a Better Treatment for Schizophrenia

Dr. Caron studies the mechanisms of action and regulation of hormones and neurotransmitters and how they might underlie brain and behavior disorders such as schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, mood disorders and addiction. He and colleagues have identified a novel mode of signaling for the brain’s dopamine D2 receptors, representing a potential lead for the development of more effective medications with fewer side effects.  They have also genetically engineered a “humanized” mouse model with a congenital deficit in serotonin that recapitulates many of the symptoms associated with animal models of depression. This model is being used to elucidate the neuronal circuits involved and to develop more selective and efficacious treatment strategies for mood disorders.

After postdoctoral training at Duke University, Dr. Caron joined the Laval University before joining the faculty at Duke.