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Murine Drinking Models in the Development of Pharmacotherapies for Alcoholism: Drinking in the Dark and Two-bottle Choice
Published on: January 7, 2019
Human laboratory paradigms in alcohol research
Jennifer G Plebani1, Lara A Ray, Meghan E Morean
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania, USA.
Alcoholism, Clinical and Experimental Research
|February 8, 2012
Summary
Human laboratory studies advance alcohol research by refining phenotypes and testing treatments. These studies explore neurobehavioral risks, genetic factors, and individual differences in alcohol use disorder and treatment response.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Genetics
Background:
- Human laboratory studies have a long history in alcoholism research.
- These studies have advanced understanding of neurobehavioral mechanisms, subtypes of alcohol users, and genetic factors.
- Recent progress has built upon neuropharmacological findings to advance translational research in alcoholism etiology and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review human laboratory studies focusing on subjective intoxication, alcohol craving, anxiety, and behavioral economics.
- To discuss opportunities for refining alcoholism phenotypes in laboratory settings.
- To highlight the application of these findings to translational science in alcoholism.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing experimental laboratory approaches combined with neuroscience and pharmacology.
- Refining alcoholism phenotypes through advanced methodologies.
- Translating laboratory findings to studies in alcoholism genetics, medication development, and pharmacogenetics.
Main Results:
- New methodologies have been applied to further refine alcoholism phenotypes.
- The combination of experimental approaches with neuroscience and pharmacology has enhanced understanding of individual differences in alcoholism risk.
- These studies are crucial for developing and testing pharmacotherapies for alcohol use disorder.
Conclusions:
- Human laboratory studies are vital for advancing the translational science of alcoholism.
- Opportunities exist for further phenotype refinement under controlled laboratory conditions.
- Recommendations for future research directions in alcoholism are provided.
