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Methods for Intravenous Self Administration in a Mouse Model
Published on: December 8, 2012
Cocaine self-administration behavior in inbred mouse lines segregating different capacities for inhibitory control
M Catalina Cervantes1, Rick E Laughlin, J David Jentsch
1Department of Psychology, University of California, P.O. Box 951563, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1563, USA.
Psychopharmacology
|May 18, 2013
Summary
Genetically influenced poor inhibitory control in mice predicted increased cocaine seeking and intake, suggesting a link between impulsivity and addiction susceptibility.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Behavioral Genetics
- Addiction Research
Background:
- Impulsivity is linked to substance abuse and dependence.
- Inhibitory control deficits may indicate genetic predisposition to addiction.
- Previous research shows heritability of inhibitory control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between genetically determined inhibitory control and addiction phenotypes.
- To determine if poor inhibitory control predicts drug-seeking behavior.
Main Methods:
- Mice with good (GRL) or poor (PRL) reversal learning abilities were used.
- Cocaine self-administration was tested under various reinforcement schedules.
- Locomotor responses to cocaine were assessed.
Main Results:
- PRL mice acquired cocaine self-administration faster and self-administered more cocaine.
- PRL mice showed increased responding during timeouts.
- PRL mice exhibited greater locomotor responses to cocaine.
Conclusions:
- Heritable differences in inhibitory control influence drug self-administration.
- Genetically driven impulsivity may predispose individuals to drug abuse.
- Inhibitory control is a potential target for addiction research.
