Associate Professor Kelly Joanne Clemens

A/Prof Clemens has broad interests in addiction biology and this is reflected in the main research themes in her laboratory. The first focuses on the molecular, including the array of epigenomic and transcriptomic changes that occur in response to drugs of abuse. It is hypothesised that molecular changes in the brain could be the mechanism through which drug cravings can persist and instigate relapse, even after very long periods of abstinence. To pursue this possibility, A/Prof Clemens uses a range of molecular techniques and bioinformatics to assess changes in the brain that occur following drug exposure. Using identified targets (in particular non-coding RNA), she is then able to manipulate the expression of these targets in vivo and show functional changes in drug-seeking behaviour. Working with collaborators in the School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences as well as industry partners in Biotechnology and Gene Therapeutics, she is hoping to develop targeted gene therapies to treat addiction and other mental health disorders. 

A second major theme is using knowledge in the behavioural neuroscience of drug addiction for direct translational outcomes. Working closely with Neonatologists at the Royal Hospital for Women, A/Prof Clemens is characterising changes in the brain and behaviour of rats prenatally exposed to opioids, with a particular focus on possible preventative or treatment measures. This study encompasses a whole-body approach, with a particular focus on the gut-brain axis and how drugs that improve gut health may significantly improve long-term outcomes for infants. This work is paralleled by a human study in collaboration with outstanding clinicians across the South Western Sydney Local Health District, to accelerate the potential for rapid translational outcomes. 

Finally, A/Prof Clemens' lab has an extensive history in the basic study of behavioural neuroscience in addiction, and further research in her lab makes use of sophisticated in vivo imaging techniques (e.g. calcium imaging) as well as post-mortem approaches (RNA scope, Immunofluorescence). Together these three themes are aimed at improving our understanding of the consequences of drugs of abuse, with a clear pathway towards industry engagement and translation.