Matthew Perry, Opioids, and the Gut-Brain Connection

In this first episode of the Translational Addiction Podcast, host Michaela Sumortin reflects on the life and legacy of Matthew Perry—best known for his role as Chandler on Friends—and his courageous advocacy for those battling addiction. Using Perry’s story as a springboard, the episode explores groundbreaking research from the Lotfipour Lab at UC Irvine on the gut-brain axis and its role in opioid addiction. Learn how disruptions in gut bacteria can affect mood, behavior, and the brain’s reward system—and why targeting the microbiome may offer a promising path toward more effective treatments for substance use disorders.

Based on the manuscript by Drs. Michelle Ren and Shahrdad Lotfipour:
“The Role of the Gut Microbiome in Opioid Use”

🎙️ Podcast Credits

Host and Lead Producer: Michaela Sumortin
Writing | Recording | Editing | Direction

Creative Producer: Tanvi Garneni
Editing | Music | Animation | Social Media | Creative Direction

Mentorship and Scientific Guidance: Dr. Shahrdad Lotfipour