Methamphetamine and MDMA (Ecstasy) Neurotoxicity: 'of Mice and Men'
IUBMB Life – May 01, 2004
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Amphetamines like methamphetamine (METH) and MDMA ('ecstasy') pose significant risks, with studies showing neurotoxic effects on 60-80% of dopaminergic and serotonergic neurons in animal models. In experiments involving transgenic and knockout mice, alterations in dopamine transporters and inflammatory cytokines were linked to this neurotoxicity. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for deciphering how METH and MDMA impact human behavior, particularly regarding addiction, cognition, and relapse. Insights from this research could enhance treatment approaches in psychology and medicine.
Abstract
Abstract Methamphetamine (METH) and 3,4‐meythylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA; 'ecstasy') are currently major drugs of abuse. One of the major concerns of amphetamines abuse is their potential neurotoxic effect on dopaminergic and serotonergic neurons. Although data from human studies are somewhat limited, compelling evidence suggests that these drugs cause neurotoxicity in rodents and primates. Recent studies in transgenic and knockout mice identified the role of dopamine transporters, nitric oxide, apoptotic proteins, and inflammatory cytokines in amphetamines neurotoxicity. Further research into the mechanisms underlying the dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotoxicity and the behavioral corollaries of these neuronal insults could facilitate our understanding of the consequences of human abuse of METH and MDMA on cognition, drug‐seeking behavior, extinction and relapse. IUBMB Life, 56: 249‐255, 2004