My lab is interested in animal models of autism, Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia. Specifically, we have investigated the neurochemical and behavioral consequences following the administration of neurotoxic (e.g. MPTP or methamphetamine) and psychotropic (e.g. stimulants, neuroleptics, antidepressants and anxiolytics) agents. With respect to the neurochemistry, we have concentrated on the mechanism through which these agents affect monoaminergic neurons, exploring pharmacological intervention as well as age-dependent alterations. With respect to behavior, we have concentrated on the analysis and detection of "subclinical" lesions (i.e. very slight alterations in brain neurochemistry lead to minor behavioral deficits which require sophisticated and sensitive behavioral assays to monitor). We have also examined the effects of chronic administration of psychotropic agents on brain neurochemistry and behavior (i.e. animal models of schizophrenia and tardive dyskinesia). Finally, we have been interested in the psychopharmacology of aggressive behavior.

	Brenz Verca, M., Bahi, A., Boyer, F., Wagner, G.C. and Dreyer, J.L.  Distribution of a and g-synucleins in the adult rat brain and the modification by high dose cocaine treatment.  European J. Neuroscience, 2003, 18, 1923-1938.
	Wagner, G.C., Avena, N., Kita, T., Nakashima, T., Fisher, H. and Halladay, A.K. Risperidone attenuation of amphetamine-induced self-injurious behavior in mice.  Neuropharmacology, 2004, 46, 700-708
	Halladay, A.K., Tessarollo, L., Zhou, R. and Wagner, G.C.  Neurochemical and behavioral deficits consequent to expression of a truncated EphA5 receptor.  Molecular Brain Research, 2004, 123, 104-111