Study identifies gene that may influence opioid addiction risk

Researchers at WashU Medicine have identified a gene that may help explain why some individuals are more likely than others to develop opioid addiction. The study builds on human genetic studies suggesting that the gene CNIH3 may influence how opioid use begins and develops over time.

A Day in the Life of Mara Bollini, MHA, BSN, RN, CPPS

Meet Mara Bollini, Director of Patient Safety and Quality within the Center for INQUIRES. Mara has been with anesthesiology helping to shape the structure, systems, and goals that guide the work within the patient safety and quality space across the department for over 13 years. The position requires the ability to dive into the details of a given situation or dataset while appreciating the big picture and impact from a department perspective.

April 20, 2026

This month was full of fun and meaningful opportunities to connect with colleagues within the department. Between the Supporting Women of WUDA retreat and Trivia Night, we had wonderful chances to spend time together outside of our usual work routines and to get to know teammates, both new and familiar, in a different way.

Highlights from the Fourth Annual Supporting Women of WUDA Retreat 

The Supporting Women of WUDA (WashU Medicine Department of Anesthesiology) group hosted its fourth annual retreat on Saturday, April 11, at the Whittemore House on WashU’s Danforth Campus. Colleagues from across the department gathered for a morning of connection over breakfast, followed by programming focused on reflection and practical application.