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Dec 09, 2025 | UC Irvine School of Medicine
The Translational Addiction Podcast #5: Nicotine on the Developing Brain
In this episode of the Translational Addiction Podcast, produced by the Lotfipour Lab, hosts examine the article “Nicotine and the Developing Brain,” by researchers Emily Castro, Shahrdad Lotfipour and Frances Leslie. In this episode, they discuss how nicotine impacts neurodevelopment across the lifespan.
Nov 21, 2025 | UC Irvine School of Medicine
The Translational Addiction Podcast #4: A Talk with Dr. Michelle Ren
In this episode of the Translational Addiction Podcast, Michaela Sumortin and Tanvi Garneni sit down with Michelle Ren, PhD, a UC Irvine alumna and former researcher in the Lotfipour Lab, to explore her scientific journey and passion for addiction research.
Oct 31, 2025 | UC Irvine School of Medicine
The Translational Addiction Podcast Talks with Dr. Emily Castro
In the Lotfipour Lab's latest podcast, hosts interview Emily Castro, PhD, a postdoctoral fellow in the Lotfipour Lab, exploring her scientific journey and passion for addiction research.
Oct 24, 2025 | UC Irvine News
Driving Ambition
Federico Vaca and his team combine behavioral science and technology to improve teen and young adult safety behind the wheel.
Sep 25, 2025 | UC Irvine School of Medicine
Translational Addiction Podcast Explores 'Glia, Substance Use and the Adolescent Brain'
In the Lotfipour Lab's latest podcast, hosts Michaela Sumortin and Tanvi Garneni unpack how glial cells — astrocytes and microglia — shape the brain’s response to drugs of abuse.
Sep 02, 2025 | UC Irvine School of Medicine
Exploring the Power of Music: Inaugural Music & Health Conference
Register today for the inaugural Music & Health Conference and join Sean Young, PhD, in exploring novel approaches to using music as a tool for health and behavior change.
Aug 08, 2025 | WBUR
Why Teens Aren't Driving as Much as They Used to
Federico E. Vaca, MD, MPH, professor and executive vice chair of emergency medicine, talks to WBUR, Boston's NPR, about why teens aren't driving as much as they used to.
Aug 04, 2025 | UC Irvine School of Medicine
Free Event to Train Teen Drivers Aims to Save Lives
Register your teen for the Ford Driving Skills for Life event in Anaheim on Aug. 16 and 17, and join Federico E. Vaca, MD, MPH in helping to keep young drivers safe.
Jul 24, 2025 | UC Irvine School of Medicine
New Podcast Explores Matthew Perry, Opioids, and the Gut-Brain Connection
The Lotfipour Lab has launched a new podcast series, The Translational Addiction Podcast, exploring cutting-edge addiction science through timely and relatable topics.
Lotfipour Lab Launches Podcast Series Exploring Addiction