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Mario E. Alburges, Ph.D.

Education and Training

B.S. 1976, University of Zulia, Chemistry

M.S. 1979, University of Zulia, Toxicology

Ph.D. 1988, University of Utah, Pharmacology

Research Interests

Because abuse of psychostimulants such as cocaine and methamphetamine has escalated in recent years, the understanding of the molecular mechanism(s) of action of these drugs on the central nervous system is essential in the development of therapies to treat drug dependence.

In our laboratory, we study the biochemical mechanisms and neurotoxicity of drugs of abuse on brain monoamine (dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine), and neuropeptides (neurotensin, substance P, enkephalins, dynorphin, neuropeptide Y) systems. We are also interested in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the neurotransmitter receptor mobilization (intracellular trafficking) caused by methamphetamine and related drugs.

Selected Publications

Alburges, M.E., Keefe, K.A., and Hanson, G.R.  Contrasting response by basal ganglia met-enkephalin system to low and high doses of methamphetamine in rat model.  J. Neurochemistry, 76:721-729, 2001.

Alburges, M.E., Keefe, K.A., and Hanson, G.R.  Unique response of limbic met-enkephalin systems to low and high doses of methamphetamine.  Brain Res., 905:120-126, 2001.

York, R.G., Denny, K.H., Moody, D.E., and Alburges, M.E.  Developmental toxicity of levo-alpha-acetylmethadol (LAMM) in tolerat rats.  Int. J. Toxicol., 21:147-159, 2002.

Hanson, R.G., Bush, L., Keefe, K.A., and Alburges, M.E.  Distinct responses of basal ganglia substance P systems to low and high doses of methamphetamine.  J. Neurochemistry, 82:1171-1178, 2002.

Frankel, P.S., Hoonakker, A.J., Hanson, G.R., Bush, L., Keefe K.A., and Alburges, M.E.  Differential neurotensin responses to low and high doses of methamphetamine in the terminal regions of striatal efferents.  Eur. J. Pharmacol.,  522:47-54, 2005.

Frankel, P.S., Alburges, M.E., Bush, L., Hanson, G.R., and Kish, S.J.  Brain levels of neuropeptides in human chronic methamphetamine users.  Neuropharmacology, 53:447-454, 2007.

Alburges, M.E., Hoonakker, A.J., and Hanson, G.R.  Nicotine and dopamine D-2 receptors mediate nicotine-induced changes in VTA neurotensin system.  Eur. J. Pharmacol., 573:124-132, 2007.

Pharmacology & Toxicology   College of Pharmacy   30 S. 2000 E., Rm 201, SLC  UT 84112  phone: 801-581-6287  fax: 801-585-5111 phtx@pharm.utah.edu