Neuroscientists from the University of North Carolina have discovered a chain of neural cells that might be responsible for the fatal passion for alcohol. These chains unite the two areas of the brain — expanded
A study published in the journal Biological Psychiatry. Press release published on the University website. Early work has already demonstrated the involvement of the extended amygdala and ventral region of tyre (SPM) in the manifestation of alcohol dependence.
However, for the first time, neuroscientists were able to demonstrate that these two regions interact with one another via neural circuitry. These networks consist of projection neurons — nerve cells with long nerve that is able to transmit signals to other brain areas.
Data projection neurons producing corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRF), which regulate the synthesis of other hormones involved in combating stress. Experiments on mice have shown that suppression of the activity of circuits between two regions of the brain protects against overeating and alcohol consumption.
Thus, the CRF system has been associated with the occurrence of alcoholism. The extended amygdala is involved in reactions to psychological stress such as loss of a job or loved one, and the GP is involved in deriving pleasure from food and from drugs and alcohol. Scientists have shown that alcohol activates CRF neurons in the extended amygdala, which transmit the excitation of GPS and, ultimately, contributing to further alcohol use.
The researchers hope that their work will help in the development of new methods of treatment of alcoholism or preventive measures against addiction among young people. It is known that people who begin drinking during adolescence are more likely to become alcoholics in the future.
