Premium
Cocaine‐induced neuroadaptations in glutamate transmission
Author(s) -
Schmidt Heath D.,
Pierce R. Christopher
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
annals of the new york academy of sciences
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.712
H-Index - 248
eISSN - 1749-6632
pISSN - 0077-8923
DOI - 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2009.05144.x
Subject(s) - neurochemical , nucleus accumbens , neuroscience , glutamate receptor , addiction , glutamatergic , psychology , sensitization , behavioral sensitization , pharmacology , medicine , dopamine , receptor
A growing body of evidence indicates that repeated exposure to cocaine leads to profound changes in glutamate transmission in limbic nuclei, particularly the nucleus accumbens. This review focuses on preclinical studies of cocaine‐induced behavioral plasticity, including behavioral sensitization, self‐administration, and the reinstatement of cocaine seeking. Behavioral, pharmacological, neurochemical, electrophysiological, biochemical, and molecular biological changes associated with cocaine‐induced plasticity in glutamate systems are reviewed. The ultimate goal of these lines of research is to identify novel targets for the development of therapies for cocaine craving and addiction. Therefore, we also outline the progress and prospects of glutamate modulators for the treatment of cocaine addiction.