Graduate Research Associate
School of Nursing
University of Connecticut
231 Glenbrook Rd U-4026
Storrs, CT 06269
Education
MS - Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Connecticut
BS - Neuroscience, West Virginia University
Curriculum Vitae
I am a third-year doctoral student in the Behavioral Neuroscience PhD program. My research is focused on non-traditional opioid and cannabinoid pain treatments. Using a range of behavioral and immunological approaches, the goal of my dissertation project is to determine the role of RGS12 (Regulator Of G Protein Signaling 12) in kappa opioid receptor signaling.
My interest in research began while working under Dr. Cole Vonder Haar at West Virginia University where I assisted in investigating the inflammatory mechanism through which traumatic brain injury's cause behavioral changes. While in the lab, I was involved with a publication that viewed how an anti-inflammatory therapeutic could potentially decrease impulsivity and risky decision-making in rats. This experience inspired me to pursue my PhD and find more effective and safe ways for treating chronic pain.
While not in the lab, I enjoy listening to music, playing games, and the outdoors.
Publications
Vanegas, S.O., Reck, A.M., Rodriguez, C.E.B., Marusich, J.A., Yassin, O., Sotzing, G., Wiley, J.L., Kinsey, S.G. (2022). Hemp-derived Δ8-tetrahydrocannabinol produces physical dependence in mice. Drug and Alcohol Dependence. In press.
Pechacek, K., Reck, A., Frankot, M., & Vonder Haar, C. (2020). Minocycline Fails to Treat Chronic Traumatic Brain Injury-Induced Impulsivity and Attention Deficits. Experimental Neurology. In press.