The habit-forming effects of several addictive drugs have been linked to their ability to elevate levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine in certain brain regions. It is important to determine which other neurotransmitters control the dopamine system and which transmitter systems dopamine controls. Two types of microdialysis studies are employed to identify neurotransmitter fluctuations that accompany drug-seeking behavior or that cause or are caused by fluctuations of dopamine. In the first, microdialysis samples are taken from various brain regions in animals trained to lever-press for intravenous drug injections. In the other, portions of drug-associated brain circuitry are stimulated and subsequent neurotransmitter fluctuations are determined from microdialysis samples distant from the site of stimulation. The results of these studies are integrated identify the neuronal circuitry of addiction and drug-seeking. Our most recent finding is that the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate brings information about reward-associated conditioned stimuli to the dopamine system that responds directly to cocaine.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
Type
Intramural Research (Z01)
Project #
1Z01DA000471-03
Application #
7321120
Study Section
(BNRB)
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
Budget End
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
2006
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
National Institute on Drug Abuse
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
State
Country
United States
Zip Code
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