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Published on: October 5, 2021
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor and cocaine addiction
Jacqueline F McGinty1, Timothy W Whitfield, William J Berglind
1Department of Neurosciences, Medical University of South Carolina, 173 Ashley Ave MSC 510, Charleston, SC 29425, USA. mcginty@musc.edu
Brain Research
|September 8, 2009
Summary
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) affects cocaine-seeking differently based on brain region. BDNF in subcortical areas increases cocaine-seeking, while in the prefrontal cortex, it can reduce relapse.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Addiction Research
Background:
- Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a role in neuronal plasticity and survival.
- Dysregulation of neurotrophic factors is implicated in substance use disorders.
- Understanding BDNF's role in cocaine addiction is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the region-specific effects of BDNF on cocaine-seeking behavior.
- To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying BDNF's influence on cocaine addiction.
- To determine if BDNF can be a therapeutic target for reducing cocaine relapse.
Main Methods:
- Infusion of BDNF or BDNF antiserum into specific brain regions (nucleus accumbens, ventral tegmental area, dorsomedial prefrontal cortex) in animal models.
- Assessment of cocaine-induced behavioral sensitization and reinstatement of cocaine-seeking.
- Measurement of molecular changes, including ERK-MAP kinase activation and glutamate transmission.
Main Results:
- BDNF infusion into subcortical areas enhanced cocaine-seeking and sensitization.
- BDNF antiserum in the nucleus accumbens attenuated cocaine-induced reinstatement.
- BDNF infusion into the prefrontal cortex attenuated relapse and reinstatement, normalizing ERK and glutamate levels.
Conclusions:
- BDNF exerts region-specific effects on cocaine-seeking behavior.
- BDNF influences cocaine addiction through alterations in the ERK-MAP kinase pathway and glutamatergic transmission.
- Targeting BDNF in specific brain regions may offer a novel therapeutic strategy for cocaine addiction treatment.
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