The objective of the proposed studies is to investigate the influence of chronic EtOH treatment on the CRF system and the involvement of this system in the EtOH withdrawal syndrome and EtOH reward. CRF regulates hormones of the HPA axis, which aid in the preservation of homeostasis. Disruption of their normal secretion via EtOH self-administration could produce severe consequences for the organism's survival. Experiments proposed under Specific Aim 1 would advance the understanding of the neurobiological changes in the function of the extrahypothalamic CRF systems and the HPA axis resulting from chronic EtOH exposure by exploring the specific neural substrates underlying CRF regulation of the HPA axis. A major characteristic of the EtOH withdrawal syndrome is the anxiogenic-like response produced by withdrawal. Experiments proposed under Specific Aim 2 will examine the attenuation of the anxiogenic-like response to single and repeated episodes of EtOH withdrawal via antagonism of the CRF system. In addition, dependence appears to be an important factor in maintaining alcohol-seeking behavior. Since anxiety has been found to have a major influence on relapse of alcohol drinking in alcoholics, experiments outlined under Specific Aim 3 will further examine the role of CRF in mediating the rewarding properties of EtOH subsequent to dependence.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
Type
Predoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F31)
Project #
1F31AA005563-01
Application #
6070065
Study Section
Health Services Research Review Subcommittee (AA)
Program Officer
Lucas, Diane
Project Start
2000-04-01
Project End
Budget Start
2000-04-01
Budget End
2001-03-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2000
Total Cost
$22,078
Indirect Cost
Name
Scripps Research Institute
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
La Jolla
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
92037