Alcohol and the brain: what's NO got to do with it?
A potential role for nitric oxide in alcohol-induced changes in brain function is discussed. Chronic alcohol exposure may lead to excitotoxicity partially due to increased levels of nitric oxide (NO). Excessive NO has been linked to cytotoxicity in neurons, glia and myelin. Cytokines produced in response to cell injury may trigger increased production of NO. These events may be involved in alcohol-induced brain damage. Formation of NO has recently been linked to increased preference for and tolerance to alcohol. A hypothesis for prevention and treatment of alcohol-induced brain damage, and craving and alcohol intake by alcoholics is proposed.
Lancaster
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Department of Biology, Texas Woman's University, Denton 76204, USA.
D001921:Brain / Q000187:drug effects*; D001923:Brain Chemistry / Q000187:drug effects*; D000431:Ethanol / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology*; D006801:Humans; D009569:Nitric Oxide / Q000378:metabolism*
D009569:Nitric Oxide; D000431:Ethanol