Erwin Ferri

M.S. 2009

Thesis Title:

Orexin and NPY Interactions in Feeding Behavior

Current Position:

Grant Writing Associate, Elsa Luis and Associates, LLC

Former Position:

Federal Programs, Municipality of Guayama, Puerto Rico

Undergraduate Institution and Major/Degree:

Interamerican University , BA, Psychology, 2004

Major Advisor(s):

Research Description:

Obesity research has provided evidence of diseases impacted by abnormal feeding behavior. These included atherosclerosis, cancer and diabetes. Hypothalamic nuclei such as the Paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and the Lateral Hypothalamic nucleus (LHA) both regulate food consumption.
Central administration of the neuropeptide Orexin in the LHA increases food intake with subsequent c-Fos in the PVN. By investigating the effects and interactions of these two nuclei and their pathways we hope to find potential avenues that may lead to drugs and methods that may block or lesson over-consumption.

Lab Rotations:

  • Paul Letourneau
  • Lihsia Chen
  • Jose Pardo
  • Catherine Kotz

Graduate Level Minor:

  • Psychology

Conferences Attended and Presentations:

  • Society for Neuroscience Conference - Fall 2005

Awards and Honors:

  • D.O.V.E Fellowship Award (2005)

Professional Memberships:

  • Society for Neuroscience

Home Town:

  • Sabana Grande, Puerto Rico
Picture of Erwin Ferri