Antonio Noronha

Dr Antonio Noronha is the Director of the Division of Neuroscience and Behavior at NIAAA. Dr. Noronha came to NIAAA in 1990 from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Since 1999 he has served as chief of the Neuroscience and Behavioral Research Branch in the former Division of Basic Research. Dr. Noronha’s research interests include alcohol and the brain; alcohol–induced behavioral effects; neurodegenerative disorders, such as multiple sclerosis; peripheral neuropathies; and alcohol–related damage to the fetus. He has conducted research on the biochemistry of myelin–associated glycoprotein, and on the role of cell adhesion molecules and other glycoconjugates in demyelinating disorders and Fetal Alcohol Exposure effects on the brain. Dr. Noronha has a Ph.D. in neuroscience from the Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University, Chicago, and has received many honors and awards, including several NIH Director’s Awards and the RSA Seixas Award for Distinguished Service. The Division of Neuroscience and Behavior promotes research on ways in which neuronal and behavioral systems are influenced by genetic, developmental, and environmental factors in conjunction with alcohol exposure to engender alcohol abuse and alcoholism.