[Plusridisciplinary approaches to understand the neutoxic effects of Ecstasy]

Recreational use of the illicit drug ecstasy (MDMA) has increased dramatically in recent years. Although generally regarded as relatively safe, several studies have suggested a toxic effect on brain neurons in animals and possibly in humans. Others have demonstrated that the neurotoxic effects of MDMA on 5-HT neurons may be reversible, while the effects of MDMA on memory function may be long-lasting. To clearly evaluated the risks of repeated MDMA use, it is crucial to characterize its targets. Moreover, in animal, the direct injection of MDMA into the brain does not reproduce neurotoxic effects observed after peripheral administration. This fact suggests a possible implication of MDMA metabolites in the development of neurotoxicity, which should be identified. These metabolites may play a role in the long term psychological effects of MDMA. To be able to answer all, or at least most of the questions on the risks induced by repeated use of MDMA, a wide range of disciplines should be used, chemistry, genomic, proteomic and pharmacology.