INSERM UMR 1247-Research Group on Alcohol and Pharmacodependences (GRAP), Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Chemin du Thil - Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, 80025, Amiens, France.
2 papers in the library · 140 citations · publishing 2008-2024
Infusing GDNF directly into the ventral tegmental area (VTA) of rats rapidly and dose-dependently reduces their operant self-administration of alcohol, but not sucrose. This effect is specific to the VTA, as infusion into the neighboring substantia nigra does not alter alcohol responding. GDNF activates the MAPK signaling pathway in the VTA, and blocking this pathway prevents the reduction in alcohol self-administration. GDNF also blocks the reacquisition of alcohol self-administration after extinction, indicating it reduces relapse-like behavior. The findings suggest GDNF, via MAPK activation, acts as a fast-acting and selective agent to diminish alcohol consumption and seeking.
A review of preclinical studies in animal models examines two emerging approaches for alcohol use disorder: psychedelics and epigenetic drugs (epidrugs). Both treatments show potential benefits for reducing alcohol drinking, seeking, motivation, and relapse. Because psychedelics and epidrugs may share common and complementary mechanisms of action, there is an opportunity for exploring synergies between these approaches and their parallel effectiveness in treating AUD and associated psychiatric conditions.