Synaptic plasticity and nicotine addiction

Neuron. 2001 Aug 16;31(3):349-52. doi: 10.1016/s0896-6273(01)00379-8.

Abstract

Nicotine, the main addictive component of tobacco, activates and desensitizes nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). In that way, nicotine alters normal nicotinic cholinergic functions. Among the myriad of psychopharmacological effects that underlie the addiction process, nicotine influences nAChR participation in synaptic plasticity. This influence has particular importance in the mesocorticolimbic dopamine system, which serves during the reinforcement of rewarding behaviors.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cerebral Cortex / physiology
  • Cerebral Cortex / physiopathology
  • Dopamine / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Limbic System / physiology
  • Limbic System / physiopathology
  • Neuronal Plasticity / drug effects
  • Neuronal Plasticity / physiology*
  • Neurons / physiology
  • Nicotine / adverse effects*
  • Nicotinic Agonists / pharmacology
  • Receptors, Nicotinic / drug effects
  • Receptors, Nicotinic / physiology*
  • Reward
  • Tobacco Use Disorder / physiopathology*
  • Tobacco Use Disorder / psychology

Substances

  • Nicotinic Agonists
  • Receptors, Nicotinic
  • Nicotine
  • Dopamine