Childhood adversity is associated with negative consequences, including maladaptive long-lasting brain effects. It has been suggested that such alterations increase the likelihood of developing substance use disorders or psychiatric disorders like depression. In our laboratory, we use an animal model called Maternal Separation with Early Weaning that allows reproducing the effects of childhood adversity in mice.

Moreover, we study if these mice exposed to early adversity show depression-like behaviour and if they are more prone to use several drugs like alcohol, cocaine or THC.