Scientists have identified a molecule, called CGP3466B, that in a recent study blocked cocaine addiction in mice. Scientist had already been testing the molecule or compound CGP3466B on humans for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, but it was unsuccessful. Once researchers learned which brain pathway cocaine acts on, they knew CGP3466B blocked that specific pathway.
The new study tested mice by giving them a choice of visiting two room, one of which occasionally dispensed cocaine. When the mice spent all of their time in the cocaine room, they were considered addicted. Those mice then received CGP3466B. The scientists found that once they received CGP3466B, the addicted mice resumed spending equal time in both rooms, i.e., they were no longer addicted.
“What’s exciting is that this drug works at very low doses, and it also appears only to affect this specific pathway, making it unlikely to have unwanted side effects,” said researcher Dr. Risheng Xu at Johns Hopkins University. The study of CGP3466B also helped confirm the details of cocaine’s action and potential treatment options. (DrugFree.org)
Cocaine stimulates the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is a brain chemical that is responsible for controlling pleasure and seeking reward. Cocaine raises the level of dopamine in the brain and tricks the brain into thinking it was something positive that should be repeated. Chronic use of cocaine can cause down-regulation or even damage to neurotransmitter receptor sites, disrupting the brain’s natural chemistry. This leads to withdrawal symptoms, feeling of loss of control, anxiety, stress, depression, cravings, and deeper levels of addiction.
