Dr. Giuseppe Giannotti’s research focuses on understanding the neuronal circuits driving heroin relapse and, in particular, those that overlap with aversion. His work may one day lead to interventions that can improve recovery outcomes for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder.
Dr. Giannotti joined the Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience in the College of Veterinary Medicine in 2022 as an assistant professor. He earned a PhD in pharmacological sciences at the University of Milan in 2016.
He recently took some time to discuss his work and research at WSU.
What are your current research interests and what attracted you to that area?
My lab is interested in the neurobiological mechanisms underlying opioid use disorder (OUD), withdrawal and relapse. Specifically, we are interested in the role of the paraventricular thalamus (PVT) in encoding negative affective and somatic states, ultimately driving opioid-seeking behavior. In the lab, we use preclinical models of OUD to recapitulate opioid use in humans. We combine advanced tools like optogenetics, fiber photometry, and molecular biology to dissect and manipulate these circuits in vivo. My interest in this area stems from the urgent need to better understand the neuronal mechanisms involved in opioid use disorders to develop targeted therapies for relapse prevention.
What do you ultimately hope to accomplish with your research?
Ultimately, I aim to contribute to a better understanding of how specific brain circuits and molecular pathways drive opioid use and relapse, with the goal of identifying potential therapeutic targets. By unraveling the complexities of opioid use disorder, I hope my work will lead to interventions that can improve recovery outcomes for individuals struggling with OUD.
When your career is over, what do you want to be remembered for?
I want to be remembered for making a meaningful impact in the field of addiction neuroscience, particularly in understanding the neurocircuitry of relapse. Additionally, I hope to be recognized for my efforts in mentoring the next generation of scientists, fostering diversity, and promoting inclusivity in science.
What advice would you give to younger people considering a career in science?
My advice would be to stay curious and resilient. Science is full of challenges, but each obstacle is an opportunity to learn and grow. Surround yourself with mentors and collaborators who will support you, and never hesitate to ask questions or seek out new perspectives.
Why did you choose to come to WSU?
WSU offers an ideal environment for my research due to its strong neuroscience community, cutting-edge facilities, and opportunities for collaboration with experts in related fields. Additionally, the location in the Pacific Northwest, with its close ties to nature and sense of community, made it a great fit for both my personal and professional life.