Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 10, 2026

Spectral Confocal Imaging of Fluorescently tagged Nicotinic Receptors in Knock-in Mice with Chronic Nicotine Administration
Published on: February 10, 2012
[Nicotine addiction--diagnosis and treatment]
Ioana Munteanu1, Cristian Didilescu
1Institutul de Pneumologie Marius Nasta, Bucureşti. imunteanuro@yahoo.com
Abstract:
Smoking consumption prevention is part to the global health strategy of World Health Organisation. Nicotine has important psychotoxic activity but comparing to alcohol and heroin it doesn't determine social disintegrate. Nicotine attaches to specific acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) and their stimulation determines the active substances release. Dopamine release is associated with nicotine-seeking behaviour which provide the passing through "pleasure" to "request". The extent of nicotine dependence is estimated using the Fagestrom test. This is a questionnaire with 6 questions, with a number of points. The highest score is 10, but a score of 7 is associated with high dependence. Nicotine dependence must be regarded as a chronic disease. Practical advice, social support and a safe environment are the main elements of successful therapy.
Related Concept Videos
CNS Depressants: Alcohol and Nicotine
Drug Dependence
Drugs Acting on Autonomic Ganglia: Stimulants
Ganglionic stimulants activate NM nicotinic receptors in autonomic ganglia, falling into two categories: nicotine mimetics [e.g., lobeline, dimethylpiperazine, tetramethylammonium] and muscarinic receptor agonists [e.g., muscarine, methacholine]. The first category's action is rapid and blocked by nicotinic receptor antagonists, while the second category's action is delayed and blocked by atropine-like agents. Nicotine, an alkaloid, affects the heart rate by stimulating sympathetic or...
Drug Abuse and Addiction: Pharmacological Phenomena
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)
Stimulants
Cocaine can be administered via snorting, injection, or smoking. It primarily functions by blocking the reuptake of dopamine, resulting in a euphoric high characterized by an intense sensation of happiness and...
