Mark Rasenick

Mark Rasenick (Photo: UIC Photo Services)

Mark Rasenick, founding director of the neuroscience program in the College of Medicine, has made significant contributions toward advancing the understanding of neurotransmitter signaling and the biology of mood disorders.

His research has helped identify a membrane protein, the localization of which can be used as a biomarker for depression. Using the biomarker as the basis of a blood test, Rasenick can accurately test for depression and assess the efficacy of antidepressant medications within just a few days of treatment — long before patients typically feel any beneficial effects. The test could lead to safer and more accurate therapeutic approaches.

Rasenick has made more numerous trips to Cuba for scientific exchange meetings and to collaborate with Cuban researchers.