Gregory C. Sartor

Gregory C. Sartor is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy. His research focuses on neurobiological mechanisms of substance use disorders using behavioral pharmacology, epigenetic analysis, and drug discovery approaches. He teaches courses including Neuropharmacology/Psychiatry, Toxicology, Advanced Pharmacology, and Research Seminars.

Educational Background:

• B.S./B.A. in Biology/Psychology from University of Mississippi
• Ph.D. in Neuroscience from Medical University of South Carolina
• Postdoctoral Training in Neuroepigenetics at University of Miami School of Medicine

Research focuses on three primary areas: Epigenetic pharmacotherapy targeting BET proteins for addiction treatment; RNA-targeted therapeutics including nanoformulations for CNS delivery; and novel opioid use disorder interventions using (2R,6R)-Hydroxynorketamine. Studies employ cell type-specific analyses and sophisticated behavioral models to identify molecular mechanisms of addiction.

Awards and Honors:

• 2024 ASPET Division for Neuropharmacology Early Career Award

Dr. Sartor mentors graduate and undergraduate researchers investigating addiction mechanisms. His lab secured a seed grant from UConn's Institute for the Brain and Cognitive Sciences for opioid disorder models. Current students explore epitranscriptomic mechanisms, ketamine metabolites for withdrawal treatment, and behavioral effects of adulterant opioids.

The Sartor Lab develops collaborative research on pharmacotherapies, overdose reversal devices, and neuroinflammatory disease connections. Lab members have received multiple awards including AFPE Gateway Research Awards and IBACS fellowships.