Dorsomedial striatum role in incubation of craving alcohol
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The dorsomedial striatum (DMS) plays a crucial role in the incubation of craving for alcohol. Studies have shown that the DMS is involved in the development of compulsive drug seeking and taking. Specifically, in rats, exposure to alcohol leads to long-term facilitation of NR2B-containing NMDA receptors in the DMS, contributing to excessive alcohol intake and relapse. Additionally, the DMS contains adenosine 2A receptor (A2AR)-containing indirect medium spiny neurons (iMSNs) that regulate reward-seeking behaviors, including those related to ethanol-seeking. Activation of A2AR in the DMS dampens operant conditioning-induced ethanol-seeking, while inhibiting this neuronal activity restores ethanol-seeking. Therefore, the DMS, through its neuronal ensembles and receptor systems, significantly influences the incubation of craving for alcohol.
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| The dorsomedial striatum, specifically A2AR-containing indirect medium spiny neurons, regulates ethanol-containing reward-seeking behaviors, potentially offering a therapeutic target for alcohol use disorder. | |
| The dorsomedial striatum plays a crucial role in alcohol consumption and relapse by facilitating NR2B-NMDAR activity, contributing to excessive intake and relapse propensity. | |
85 Citations | The dorsomedial striatum (DMS) plays a role in alcohol craving incubation during withdrawal, as shown in abstinent alcoholics and animal models, indicating its involvement in addictive behaviors. |
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