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Updated: Jun 11, 2025

Chronic Intermittent Ethanol Vapor Exposure Paired with Two-Bottle Choice to Model Alcohol Use Disorder
Published on: June 23, 2023
[Epigenetic changes in alcohol addiction and therapeutic perspectives]
1Inserm UMR1247, groupe de recherche sur l'alcool et les pharmacodépendances, centre universitaire de recherche en santé, université Picardie Jules-Verne, chemin du Thil, Amiens, France.
Abstract:
Alcohol consumption is a major public health issue. Patients with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) can benefit from five treatments that preferentially target membrane receptors, and whose efficacy is generally modest. However, a large body of experimental evidence points to an important role for epigenetics in the effects of alcohol consumption, and epidrugs that modify the epigenome offer an interesting alternative to current therapeutic options. This article reviews the most striking experimental evidence obtained at different ages in animal models, before comparing it with data obtained in humans and concluding on the relevance of using epidrugs. Finally, a new therapeutic option is suggested between psychedelics, recent molecules of interest, and epigenetic factors in alcohol intake.
Insights
Epigenetic modifications play a key role in alcohol use disorder (AUD). Exploring epidrugs offers a promising alternative to current treatments for AUD, potentially improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Genetics
Context:
- Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) presents a significant public health challenge.
- Current AUD treatments targeting membrane receptors show modest efficacy.
- Emerging evidence highlights the crucial role of epigenetics in alcohol's effects.
Purpose:
- To review experimental evidence on epigenetics and alcohol consumption across different ages in animal models and humans.
- To assess the therapeutic potential of epidrugs for AUD.
- To propose novel therapeutic strategies integrating psychedelics and epigenetic factors.
Summary:
- Alcohol consumption significantly impacts the epigenome, influencing AUD development and progression.
- Epidrugs, which modify epigenetic markers, represent a promising avenue for novel AUD therapies.
- Research in animal models and human data supports the relevance of epigenetic interventions.
Impact:
- This review underscores the potential of epigenetic therapies to offer a new paradigm for AUD treatment.
- It bridges the gap between fundamental epigenetic research and clinical application.
- Suggests innovative therapeutic combinations for future AUD management.
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