At WSU, our faculty make contributions to the research enterprise every day of the year. These faculty are not only outstanding in their fields, but their research and creative practice reaches out from the university to the public we serve making real impacts on the lives of people in Washington and beyond. Each month the Office of Research will highlight some of our talented faculty discussing their research and creative practice in their own words.
Travis Brown, associate professor
College of Veterinary Medicine, WSU Pullman
What are you currently researching?
Our laboratory is investigating how environmental cues associated with substances like cocaine and heroin, as well as palatable foods, can significantly reshape brain circuitry, driving maladaptive seeking behaviors. These neural adaptations contribute to the perpetuation of drug relapse and disordered eating patterns, such as obesity and anorexia nervosa. Currently, we are examining non-pharmacological interventions, specifically exercise and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, as potential strategies to mitigate drug and food cravings. Our research aims to determine whether these approaches can effectively attenuate the neuronal adaptations that facilitate excessive drug and food seeking, and in some instances, restrictive eating patterns. By investigating both the underlying mechanisms of these disorders and potential therapeutic interventions, we hope to contribute to the development of more effective treatments for these complex conditions.
Why is understanding neuroscience and neurobiological mechanisms key to understanding drug addiction and obesity?
Understanding the neurobiological mechanisms behind drug addiction and obesity is essential, as both conditions stem from alterations in brain structure and function. Neuroscience sheds light on the intricate interactions between neurotransmitter systems, brain circuits and behavior, offering key insights into the onset, persistence, and treatment of drug addiction and obesity.
What role could neuroscience play in the treatment of addiction? Where do you hope to see research and innovations go in the future for treatments?
Neuroscience has become a key driver in advancing addiction treatment by revealing the complex neural mechanisms behind substance use disorders and obesity. Over the past decade, significant progress has been made in understanding the neural adaptations linked to addiction, opening the door to innovative therapies once thought impossible.
Neuroscience has become a key driver in advancing addiction treatment by revealing the complex neural mechanisms behind substance use disorders and obesity.
Travis Brown
I believe future research will likely combine brain targeted therapies, including both drug based and non-drug approaches, with behavioral interventions to help with compliance. As we move forward, I believe it is evident that a one-size-fits-all approach will be insufficient in tackling the complexities of addiction, necessitating a shift towards more personalized, neuroscience-informed treatment strategies.
How will your research have a wider impact on society?
My research aims to develop accessible strategies to reduce the influence of environmental cues that trigger cravings for drugs and unhealthy foods—key drivers of addiction and obesity. I also take great pride in mentoring students in the lab and classroom, encouraging them to challenge the stigma surrounding these conditions and think innovatively about solutions. By integrating my work in research and education, I hope to advance our understanding of these issues and promote better mental health and well-being in our communities.
What drew you to WSU?
I grew up a proud Coug with my father attending WSU and I couldn’t wait to follow in his footsteps.
As part of the inaugural undergraduate Neuroscience program, I was inspired by the incredible faculty and knew I wanted to be one of them. After being accepted into the graduate Neuroscience program, I had the privilege of being mentored by Dr. Barbara Sorg.
Following my Ph.D., I completed a postdoc at Brown University and spent ten years at the University of Wyoming. But my heart always stayed with the Palouse. When the chance came to return to WSU and the program that sparked my passion for neuroscience, I couldn’t pass it up. Now I have the honor of working alongside those who originally inspired me, while building new collaborations and friendships along the way.
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