Dennis Sparta

Dennis Sparta, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), affiliated with the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on the neurobiological mechanisms underlying binge drinking and addiction, particularly examining brain circuits involving the central amygdala, insula, and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST). Using techniques such as optogenetics, in vivo calcium imaging, and pharmacogenetic manipulation, he investigates how neuronal activity and neuroinflammation contribute to alcohol-seeking behaviors.

Dr. Sparta’s work emphasizes sex-dependent plasticity in neural pathways and the role of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) neurons in modulating binge drinking and relapse. His studies also explore glutamatergic and GABAergic signaling in reward circuits and the impact of stress on alcohol consumption. He is actively reviewing applications for doctoral students to join his lab starting Fall 2024.

Key themes in his research include neuropharmacology, neuroinflammation, and the integration of advanced neuroimaging tools for studying brain circuitry. While no scientific awards are explicitly listed, his contributions to addiction neuroscience are evident through his extensive publication record.