Positron Emission Tomography (PET) has been used to detect and study the release of dopamine through a measure known as binding potential, which reflects the number of available dopamine receptors; however, the amount of tracer (mass dose) required can mask changes in the binding potential in the brain. In addition, binding potential does not provide any information about the timing of dopamine release. The research by Mr. Normandin focused on determining if a new method of data analysis could account for mass dose and determine the time course of the dopamine response. The method has been applied to PET data from rats receiving alcohol and from realistic computer simulated data with good results. Future research is planned to better characterize the method, to optimize the experimental protocol, and to make appropriate changes to accommodate the study of other neurotransmitter systems.

Open to students, faculty, staff, and prospective students, the Summer Seminar series provides students the opportunity to present research and develop presentation skills in a friendly and supportive environment. After the presentation, there is a session for technical questions, then a session to provide feedback and constructive criticism on the presentation itself.

Students who take part in the series are eligible for the Fearnot Prize. Dr. Neal Fearnot, a Purdue alumnus and president of MED Institute, established this award because he felt that the experience he gained as a student presenter at the BME summer seminar series was extremely valuable. The award is presented to the graduate student whose presentation receives the highest evaluation from the faculty, students and staff attending the seminars.