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Published on: February 11, 2017
A novel UCS memory retrieval-extinction procedure to inhibit relapse to drug seeking
Yi-xiao Luo1, Yan-xue Xue2, Jian-feng Liu1
11] Institute of Mental Health/Peking University Sixth Hospital, Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China. [2] National Institute on Drug Dependence, Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
Abstract:
We recently reported that a conditioned stimulus (CS) memory retrieval-extinction procedure decreases reinstatement of cocaine and heroin seeking in rats and heroin craving in humans. Here we show that non-contingent cocaine or methylphenidate injections (UCS retrieval) 1 h before the extinction sessions decreases cocaine-priming-induced reinstatement, spontaneous recovery, and renewal of cocaine seeking in rats. Unlike the CS-based memory retrieval-extinction procedure, the UCS memory retrieval manipulation decreases renewal and reinstatement of cocaine seeking in the presence of cocaine cues that were not present during extinction training and also decreases cocaine seeking when the procedure commences after 28 days of abstinence. The inhibitory effect of the UCS retrieval manipulation on cocaine-priming-induced reinstatement is mediated by regulation of AMPA-receptor endocytosis in the basolateral amygdala. The UCS memory retrieval-extinction procedure has superior relapse prevention characteristics than the CS memory retrieval-extinction procedure and could be a promising method for decreasing relapse in human addicts.