Resting state functional connectivity analysis for addiction medicine: From individual loci to complex networks

Resting state functional connectivity (rsFC) has provided a new and valuable tool for investigating network-level dysfunction in addiction. Following the recent development of a framework of large scale network disruptions, we have been able to arrive at unique insights into craving-related aspects of addiction using rsFC. However, such network-level advancement has thus far eluded our understanding of mesocorticolimbic involvement in addiction. Given the importance of this system in vulnerability and resilience to addiction, understanding mesocorticolimbic dynamics to the same extent could provide critical insights into the disease. To this end, we review here recent studies on addiction that employ rsfC and suggest a new approach, one that combines a novel model for addiction with new experimental techniques as well as participant groups, to accelerate progress in this arena.