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TAAR1 and Psychostimulant Addiction.
Jianfeng Liu1, Ruyan Wu2, Jun-Xu Li3
1Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University At Buffalo, The State University of New York, 955 Main Street, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA. jfliu1987@gmail.com.
Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology
|January 25, 2020
Summary
Trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) agonists show promise in treating psychostimulant addiction by reducing dopamine transmission. Further research is needed to address potential concerns before clinical application.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Addiction Research
Background:
- Trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) is a key regulator of monoaminergic systems.
- TAAR1 activation negatively impacts dopamine transmission in the mesocorticolimbic pathway.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of TAAR1 agonists in modulating psychostimulant addiction.
- To discuss the efficacy and potential limitations of TAAR1 agonists for addiction treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical studies using various addiction models (sensitization, conditioned place preference, self-administration, discrimination, relapse).
- Analysis of neurochemical and behavioral data from studies on TAAR1 full and partial agonists.
- Evaluation of potential concerns for clinical translation.
Main Results:
- TAAR1 agonists effectively prevent psychostimulant-induced dopamine transmission.
- Activation of TAAR1 attenuates, while TAAR1 knockout potentiates, addiction-related behaviors.
- Preclinical evidence generally supports the therapeutic potential of TAAR1 agonists.
Conclusions:
- TAAR1 agonists represent a promising pharmacotherapy for psychostimulant addiction and relapse prevention.
- Further investigation into abuse liability, sleep effects, and species differences is required for successful clinical translation.
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