Fooroogh Raeisi Makiani Fooroogh Raeisi Makiani PhD Candidate

My research focuses on neurochemical imaging techniques including positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance spectroscopy, enabling molecular-level imaging of the living brain. I study pain in borderline personality disorder (BPD) and self-harming behaviours. Recurrent self-inflicted pain can alter pain perception in the central and peripheral nervous system. Investigating pain signalling might uncover a shifted balance in the binding availability of neuroreceptors. My work targets nociception/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) opioid peptide receptor (NOP) in patients with BPD and self-harm behaviours. A G protein-coupled receptor which is involved in pain transmission and is studied as a potential target for developing analgesics.

University:

University of Toronto

Principal Faculty:

Temerty Faculty of Medicine

Principal Department/Program:

Pharmacology

Principal Hospital Appointment:

Centre for Addiction and Mental Health

Supervisor:

Dr. Stefan Kloiber and Dr. Nathan Kolla