BIOGRAPHY

Dr. Jimenez completed his undergraduate degree in microbiology from Arizona State University and went on to complete his doctoral training in immunology with an emphasis in infectious diseases at Northern Arizona University. Dr. Jimenez’s passion for investigating substances of abuse began with his work on alcohol use disorder to better understand the effects of alcohol on pathogen-host interactions. His current research expands beyond alcohol, by studying other abused drugs, such as heroin and fentanyl, and their effects on behavior and physiological perturbations.
Furthermore, his current research investigates the therapeutic potential of a novel mu opioid receptor antagonist in order to develop a more effective treatment for OUD. Dr. Jimenez utilizes whole body plethysmography to understand how opioids affect ventilation and the therapeutic potential of drugs to reverse and prevent opioid-induced overdose. In addition, he is interested in identifying better nonopioid alternatives for treated OUD and ultimately saving more lives. Dr. Jimenez is passionate about teaching, communicating science, mentoring students, and community service that aims to educate, inspire, and lift others.

PUBLICATIONS

Jimenez M.V., Castaneda G., France C.P. (2020) Methocinnamox (MCAM) reverses and prevents fentanyl-induced ventilatory depression in rats. The Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, JPET-AR-2020-000387