Molecular ‘switch’ reduces nicotine’s effect on the brain in animal model.

The motivation for natural rewards such as food, sex and exercise, and also of drugs such as nicotine, relies on neurons in the brain’s reward system, based in a brain region called the ventral tegmental area (VTA). Obtaining a reward leads to excitation of these neurons and the release of a neurotransmitter called dopamine, which acts on other neurons to trigger positive emotions.  Dopamine transmission … Continue reading Molecular ‘switch’ reduces nicotine’s effect on the brain in animal model.