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Channelrhodopsin-expressing fibers (yellow) from insular cortex dynorphin (DYN) neurons traverse striosome-dendron bouquets to contact dopamine neurons (magenta) in the substantia nigra pars compacta. DAPI is shown in cyan. In this issue, Pina et al show that insular cortex DYN neurons serve as a driving force in the escalated intake that occurs following prolonged alcohol drinking. As shown here, insula DYN neurons send long-range projections to the substantia nigra, suggesting a possible downstream mechanism underlying their role in escalated alcohol intake. For more information, see the article by Pina et al. (pages 5158–5171). Cover image: Melanie M. Pina.