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Changes in the α4β2* nicotinic acetylcholine system during chronic controlled alcohol exposure in nonhuman primates.

Authors :
Hillmer AT
Tudorascu DL
Wooten DW
Lao PJ
Barnhart TE
Ahlers EO
Resch LM
Larson JA
Converse AK
Moore CF
Schneider ML
Christian BT
Source :
Drug and alcohol dependence [Drug Alcohol Depend] 2014 May 01; Vol. 138, pp. 216-9. Date of Electronic Publication: 2014 Feb 15.
Publication Year :
2014

Abstract

Background: The precise nature of modifications to the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) system in response to chronic ethanol exposure is poorly understood. The present work used PET imaging to assay α4β2* nAChR binding levels of eight rhesus monkeys before and during controlled chronic ethanol intake.<br />Methods: [(18)F]Nifene PET scans were conducted prior to alcohol exposure, and then again after at least 8 months controlled ethanol exposure, including 6 months at 1.5 g/kg/day following a dose escalation period. Receptor binding levels were quantified with binding potentials (BPND) using the cerebellum as a reference region. Alcohol self-administration was assessed as average daily alcohol intake during a 2 month free drinking period immediately following controlled alcohol.<br />Results: Significant decreases in α4β2* nAChR binding were observed in both frontal and insular cortex in response to chronic ethanol exposure. During chronic alcohol exposure, BPND in the lateral geniculate region correlated positively with the amount of alcohol consumed during free drinking.<br />Conclusions: The observed decreases in nAChR availability following chronic alcohol consumption suggest alterations to this receptor system in response to repeated alcohol administration, making this an important target for further study in alcohol abuse and alcohol and nicotine codependence.<br /> (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1879-0046
Volume :
138
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Drug and alcohol dependence
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
24602361
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2014.01.027