Advancing mental health solutions: Jaramillo’s neuroscience research offers hope
LEXINGTON, Ky. (October 4, 2024) – Assistant Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences Anel Jaramillo, Ph.D., is leading cutting-edge research in neuroscience and addiction at the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy (UKCOP), focusing on improving the lives of individuals experiencing substance use disorders. Her pioneering work, particularly in understanding the neurobiological mechanisms of addiction and anxiety, has the potential to revolutionize treatment options for millions.
Recently recognized in The Atlas of Inspiring Hispanic/Latinx Scientists, Jaramillo is among a select group of faculty nationwide whose work highlights significant scientific contributions by Hispanic and Latino scientists. As the only representative from the University of Kentucky included in this collection, her research underscores the importance of understanding addiction and emotional dysregulation in developing new treatment strategies.
A Personal Journey
Jaramillo’s journey to becoming a neuroscientist is deeply personal. As the daughter of Mexican immigrants raised in Dallas, Texas, she grew up in a community affected by addiction, which sparked her early curiosity about why people struggle with substances. Over time, this question guided her educational and career path, fueling her determination to uncover the neurobiological roots of addiction and anxiety.
“I didn’t initially set out to become a neuroscientist,” Jaramillo explains. “But my curiosity about addiction and the desire to help people affected by it propelled me into this field. It’s incredibly fulfilling to work on research that has the potential to make a real difference in people’s lives.”
Breakthrough Research in Combating Addiction
At the UK College of Pharmacy, Jaramillo leads a research team focused on understanding anxiety-related behaviors during alcohol abstinence—a critical factor that often triggers relapse in individuals recovering from substance use disorders. Central to her work is PACAP (Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide), a neuropeptide critical to the body’s stress and anxiety responses.
Jaramillo’s studies suggest that elevated levels of PACAP in the brain are linked to heightened anxiety during alcohol withdrawal, particularly in females, who are more susceptible to the emotional dysregulation that can drive relapse. By exploring how inhibiting PACAP can reduce withdrawal-induced anxiety, her team aims to offer alternative treatments to traditional therapies like SSRIs, which are often less effective in severe cases of anxiety.
“This peptide could be a game-changer in how we approach both addiction and mood disorders,” Jaramillo notes. “Our goal is to develop targeted therapies that provide relief from the anxiety experienced during abstinence, which would not only reduce relapse rates but improve overall mental health outcomes.”
While still in the preclinical phase, her research holds great promise for the future of addiction treatment. Jaramillo is optimistic that her findings could lead to new, more effective pharmacological therapies that provide personalized solutions for individuals with substance use and anxiety disorders.
Community Engagement and Education
Beyond her groundbreaking research, Jaramillo is committed to raising awareness about addiction and mental health in the broader community. Having seen firsthand the stigma surrounding substance use disorders, she believes that education and open conversations are crucial to dismantling misconceptions and encouraging more people to seek help.
“I grew up seeing the real effects of addiction—not just on individuals, but on families and entire communities,” Jaramillo shares. “It’s important to me to share what I’ve learned and help dispel myths about addiction and mental health, especially in underserved communities.”
Jaramillo is passionate about partnering with local schools and organizations to increase awareness of brain science, addiction, and the importance of mental health care. Through these initiatives, she aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and advocate for the importance of mental health education in schools.
Looking Ahead to New Treatments
Jaramillo envisions a future where her research leads to clinical trials for new drug therapies targeting anxiety and stress disorders in individuals with substance use disorders, particularly women. Her work aims to revolutionize treatment options by providing more effective, personalized care for those with severe anxiety or mood disorders.
“I want my research to make a real difference in people’s lives,” Jaramillo says. “But I also want to inspire my students to dream big, knowing that their work has the potential to create meaningful change.”
Jaramillo’s contributions not only advance addiction treatment but also serve as a model of determination and curiosity for future scientists. Through her groundbreaking work, she is shaping the future of neuroscience and offering hope to millions affected by addiction and mental health challenges.