The brain switch that could rewrite how we treat mental illness

Dr. Eric Nestler's four-decade research career has revolutionized psychiatric science by discovering how molecular changes in the brain explain lasting effects of drugs and stress on behavior. His breakthrough discovery of the protein ΔFosB, which accumulates in brain reward circuits and remains active for weeks or months, provides the biological mechanism for how brief experiences create long-term changes in mood and behavior. His work emphasizes resilience by identifying protective features in brains that naturally resist stress and addiction.