Sensitization to the reinforcing effects of cocaine following binge-abstinent self-administration.
The process of addiction in humans involves a transition from recreational drug use to compulsive drug-taking. To understand or study this behavioral phenomenon from a neurobiological perspective, behavioral models that reflect this process are necessary. Data from typical (restricted access) self-administration procedures demonstrate a stable pattern of responding over time, and thus fail to capture the transitional phases of this process. Here we describe the development of a model that incorporates self-administration-induced changes in the reinforcing efficacy of cocaine, assessed using a progressive ratio schedule of reinforcement to probe the 'motivational' state of the animal. To date we have identified two necessary conditions for the development of this sensitization: extended access to cocaine and a deprivation period. This model, in conjunction with recently developed tools to characterize neurochemical and epigenetic changes, will provide a better understanding of the neurobiological bases of the addiction process.
Morgan
Drake
D
Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
Roberts
David C S
DC
D000818:Animals; D016739:Behavior, Addictive; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000494:pharmacology; D003042:Cocaine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology*; D019970:Cocaine-Related Disorders; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D006801:Humans; D009043:Motor Activity / Q000187:drug effects; D009294:Narcotics / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology*; D012055:Reinforcement Schedule; D012054:Reinforcement, Psychology; D012646:Self Administration
D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants; D009294:Narcotics; D003042:Cocaine