Biomedical professor receives millions for brain research
The grant will support Randy Blakely’s ongoing research on serotonin’s effects on the brain.
Randy Blakely, biomedical professor and executive director of the FAU Brain Institute. Photo courtesy of the FAU Division of Research
September 26, 2017
To better understand how to treat mental illness, FAU biomedical professor Randy Blakely will use a $2.3 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to further his research.
The institutes are part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The NIH is responsible for research in the field of medicine, public health, and social services.
Blakely was awarded the money to continue his research into the naturally occurring chemical serotonin, according to the Sun Sentinel. The chemical affects actions like sleep, appetite, and memory.
Increased research could help better treat mental disorders like Huntington’s disease, autism spectrum disorder, and OCD.
The professor said that the research may lead to the development of “more effective medications including those with milder side effects.”
Blakely is the executive director of the FAU Brain Institute and a professor within the College of Medicine.
Nate Nkumbu is a staff writer for the University Press. For information regarding this or other stories, email [email protected] or tweet him @FoureyedNate.
