Christian Lüscher

Professor Christian Lüscher is a leading neuroscientist at the University of Geneva, focusing on the cellular and synaptic mechanisms underlying drug addiction. His research explores how addictive substances alter neuroplasticity in the mesolimbic dopamine system, particularly in the ventral tegmental area (VTA).

• Key Research Areas: Synaptic plasticity in addiction, µ-opioid receptor dynamics, neuroadaptive changes, and developing novel addiction therapies through optogenetics and neuroimaging.
• Techniques: Electrophysiology, genetic and pharmacological tools, in vivo imaging, and behavioral models.

Recent Publications: His 2024-2025 work includes groundbreaking studies on fentanyl reinforcement mechanisms, sweat-based biosensors for substance abuse monitoring, and insights into overeating neurobiology. Earlier articles focus on cocaine-induced synaptic changes, NMDA receptor roles, and circuit models for addiction.

Collaborations: Dr. Lüscher works with international experts in psychiatry, biomedical engineering, and neuroimaging, including colleagues at University of Geneva's CMU (Center for Medical Education) and institutions in the U.S. and Europe.