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The Motivation for Alcohol Reward: Predictors of Progressive-Ratio Intravenous Alcohol Self-Administration in Humans
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Vasopressin and alcohol: a multifaceted relationship
Kathryn M Harper1, Darin J Knapp2,3, Hugh E Criswell2,3
1Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, CB #7178, Thurston Bowles Building, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7178, USA. kathryn_harper@med.unc.edu.
Psychopharmacology
|November 5, 2018
Summary
Arginine vasopressin (VP) influences alcohol and stress behaviors, with VP system manipulation altering drinking and anxiety. However, clinical trials targeting VP for alcohol abuse have yielded mixed results, indicating more research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Arginine vasopressin (VP) is linked to neuropsychiatric disorders, particularly when stress exacerbates symptoms.
- Research is exploring VP as a therapeutic target for conditions like alcohol abuse.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on VP's role in alcohol and stress-related behaviors.
- To summarize clinical trials involving VP-targeting drugs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on VP system, alcohol, and stress.
- Analysis of preclinical and clinical data on VP manipulation and its effects.
Main Results:
- Alcohol and stress alter the VP system.
- Modulating VP or its receptors impacts alcohol tolerance, consumption, and anxiety.
- VP system manipulation affects the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis response to alcohol.
- Clinical trials of VP antagonists show inconsistent outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Further research is needed to identify specific brain regions involved in VP-mediated behavioral effects.
- Identifying specific receptor subtypes and clinical contexts may lead to more effective treatments targeting VP.
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