AVERITT LAB
We are a neuroscience research laboratory dedicated to pre-clinical studies exploring the novel pain mechanisms that contribute to the higher prevalence of craniofacial pain disorders in women, as well as the development of new non-opioid pain therapeutics.
Our current research program focuses on (1) the impact of gonadal hormones on craniofacial pain, (2) how stress may differentially worsen craniofacial pain in females compared to males, (3) the role of gonadal hormone modulation of immune cells in relation to sex differences in craniofacial pain, and (4) the discovery of phytochemicals to create innovative non-opioid treatments.
NEUROSCIENCE TOOLS
We employ primary neuron and immune cell culture methods, immunohistochemistry, enzyme-linked immunoassays, in situ hybridization, confocal microscopy, pharmacological interventions, and in vivo behavioral assessments investigate our hypotheses regarding pain and analgesia
PREPARING THE NEXT GENERATION SCIENTIST
Providing guidance to doctoral, master's, and undergraduate students in the fields of biology, molecular biology, pain management, analgesia, and neuroscience.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Engaging in outreach initiatives in schools across the DFW area to introduce neuroscience concepts, enhance the recruitment of women into STEM, and raise awareness about research careers in medicine.