UAB Division of Surgical Oncology Assistant Professor Angela Carter, Ph.D., and Division of Gastrointestinal Surgery Professor Aurelio Galli, Ph.D, D.Sc., have received a $40,000 grant from the UAB Comprehensive Neuroscience Center (CNC) to support their research on “Microbial biofilms as regulators of psychostimulant abuse.”

Through this research project, Carter and Galli are continuing their study of the human microbiome, which consists of the bacteria present in the human body. They are particularly focused on understanding how microbes interact with their hosts and using this knowledge to address human diseases.

Their current research focuses on microbial biofilms, which is comprised of multiple microorganisms attached to a surface -- such as the lining of the intestines. This phenomenon could potentially have unknown side effects, including influencing psychostimulant abuse. Increasing the overall understanding of how biofilms work and are biologically influenced may lead to improved treatment options for patients.

In early 2024, Carter and Galli were awarded $2.7 million from the National Institute of Health to study the role of the microbiome in use and misuse of amphetamine-class drugs.

About the UAB Comprehensive Neuroscience Center (CNC) Award Program

The UAB Comprehensive Neuroscience Center (CNC) Award Program aims to accelerate discovery by promoting excellence in fundamental, translational, and clinical neuroscience research, education, and clinical care through the integration of the UAB-wide neuroscience community. As part of this mission, the CNC is funding two, multi-PI pilot grants for up to $40,000 each for a 24-month period.