Advanced Psychopharmacology
My approach to precision psychiatry is deeply informed by over two decades of leadership in NIH-funded clinical trials and neurobiological research. I have been at the forefront of investigating the genetic and molecular underpinnings of Anxiety Disorders, Major Depressive Disorder, and Bipolar Disorder. This background allows me to move beyond standard treatment algorithms; by applying the same rigorous standards used in clinical trials, I help patients with treatment-resistant conditions find clarity through biomarker-informed therapeutics and advanced psychopharmacology. My work focuses on translating complex scientific data into personalized, real-world protocols that target the biological root causes of mood and anxiety symptoms.
From Clinical Trials Expertise to Real-World Treatment
Clinical Research & Selected Publications
Precision Psychiatry & Longevity
Major Psychiatric Disorders, Substance Use Behaviors, and Longevity JAMA Psychiatry, 2024 > The Insight:A large-scale genetic study exploring the causal links between mental health, substance use, and biological aging. This research informs our practice's focus on "Healthspan"—optimizing both brain health and physical longevity.
Bipolar Disorder & Lithium Optimization
Clinical predictors of non-response to lithium treatment in the Pharmacogenomics of Bipolar Disorder (PGBD) study Bipolar Disorders, 2021 > The Insight: This research identifies specific clinical markers—such as baseline anxiety and metabolic features—that predict how a patient will respond to Lithium, allowing us to tailor treatment plans more accurately from day one.
Advanced Psychopharmacology for Anxiety & Depression
Serotonin pathway polymorphisms and the treatment of major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders Pharmacogenomics, 2015 > The Insight: A foundational look at how genetic variations in the serotonin system dictate antidepressant efficacy, supporting our use of biomarker-informed prescribing to reduce side effects.
Time to relapse after 6 and 12 months' treatment of generalized anxiety disorder with venlafaxine extended release Archives of General Psychiatry, 2010 > The Insight: This study provides critical data on long-term stabilization, demonstrating that extended treatment durations significantly reduce the risk of relapse in chronic anxiety.
Ziprasidone treatment of refractory generalized anxiety disorder: a placebo-controlled, double-blind study Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 2010 > The Insight: An investigation into adjunctive treatments for "refractory" (treatment-resistant) anxiety, offering new hope for patients who have not found relief through standard first-line medications.
The Science of Personalized Care
Pharmacogenetics of antidepressant drugs: current clinical practice and future directions Pharmacogenomics, 2012 > The Insight: This publication outlines the clinical framework for using genetic testing to guide antidepressant choice, a core pillar of our precision psychiatry approach.
Overview of the genetics of major depressive disorder Current Psychiatry Reports, 2010 > The Insight: A comprehensive summary of the hereditary and biological factors of depression, bridging the gap between molecular neuroscience and real-world patient care.