Jennifer J. Tuscher, PhD
Assistant Professor
Locations
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, BSB
- Office: BSB6230; Lab: BSB6340
Contact Information
Education
PhD and MS Training, Experimental Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 2011-2017
BS, Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Biography
Research Interests
- Neuroendocrine regulation of memory
- Behavioral pharmacology
- Transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms of Substance Use Disorders (Cocaine, Opioids)
- Glial contribution to SUDs
- CRISPR-based gene and epigenetic editing
The Tuscher Lab is currently focused on investigating the neurobiological basis of memory persistence and how sex-steroid hormones shape this process. Dr. Tuscher’s experimental approach integrates transcriptomics, chromatin dynamics, neuropharmacology, immunohistochemistry, cell culture model systems and behavioral assays to uncover the mechanisms that support neuroplasticity and memory. In the context of adaptive memory, this work centers on cell-type specific mechanisms for bolstering neuroplasticity and promoting the long-term storage of beneficial memories. In the context of maladaptive memory, these approaches offer insights into the neurobiological mechanisms that contribute to the development and maintenance of substance use disorders, and provide a foundation for developing targeted therapeutic interventions. Please check out the for additional information.