A Role for the Preoptic Area in Modulating Cocaine Reward

University Of Texas At Austin, Austin TX

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Most studies point to the mesocorticolimbic dopamine (DA) system as the necessary neurobiological endpoint when describing cocaine's rewarding properties; however, this system does not operate in isolation, and input from other structures may play a significant role in cocaine reward. One area that has received little attention as a potential modulator of cocaine-induced activity is the medial preoptic area of the hypothalamus (MPOA). The MPOA is involved in the regulation of two naturally rewarding behaviors (maternal and sexual behaviors), is sexually dimorphic, and interacts with areas in the mesocorticolimbic system. As such, the MPOA is a logical candidate for a neuroanatomical locus modulating cocaine-induced activity, yet surprisingly little is known about the role of this structure in the context of drug abuse. Here, we focus on preclinical animal models of cocaine reward, hypothesizing that the MPOA modulates cocaine-induced activity in the mesocorticolimbic system and resulting behavioral expression of reward, including sex differences. The proposed studies will answer the following questions: (1) Does the MPOA modulate cocaine-induced neuronal and dopamine activity in the mesocorticolimbic system? (2) Does the MPOA modulate cocaine reward? (3) Do cells in the MPOA containing gonadal-hormone receptors interact with the mesocorticolimbic system? (4) Do gonadal hormones act via the MPOA to modulate cocaine-induced neuronal and dopamine activity in the mesocorticolimbic system? (5) Do gonadal hormones act via the MPOA to modulate cocaine reward? Using neuroanatomical, neurochemical, and behavioral assays, the proposed work will examine whether the MPOA may serve as an extension of the reward pathway in modulating cocaine-induced activity. The findings from these studies will yield a greater understanding of the neurochemical and neuroendocrine substrates regulating cocaine reward. A greater understanding of the neurochemical and neuroendocrine regulation of cocaine reward will facilitate the development of treatment for drug addiction, when hormonal factors may be especially important.