Analysis of Ecstasy (MDMA)‐induced transcriptional responses in the rat cortex
The FASEB Journal December 1, 2002 Bruce Ladenheim, Michael Mccoy, Jean Lud Cadet et al. 34 citations
MDMA (ecstasy) triggers changes in gene activity in the rat cortex within hours of a single injection. The genes affected are involved in signaling, transcription regulation, and xenobiotic metabolism, suggesting that the cortex responds acutely by altering transcription of genes that could lead to long-term brain changes. MDMA is known to cause hyperthermia, reactive oxygen species, and long-term serotonin depletion, with the cortex especially sensitive. These molecular changes may underlie the drug's lasting effects on the brain.