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For recovering addicts, the sight of drug paraphernalia and other reminders can trigger intense cravings and relapses. Now, two studies with rats demonstrate that it's possible to weaken drug-related memories by interfering with molecular signals in the brain's reward pathways. The work is a long way from the clinic, but researchers say it hints at an exciting new approach to helping addicts kick the habit. Both studies, published in the 15 September issue of Neuron, add to growing support for a process called memory reconsolidation. This controversial idea holds that each time a memory is recalled it becomes briefly vulnerable--and can be weakened by compounds that target certain genes or molecules in the brain. To find out whether drug-related memories can be weakened during recall, Jonathan Lee and colleagues at the University of Cambridge, U.K., first introduced a group of rats to the pleasures of cocaine. The animals quickly learned that a glowing light appeared each time they scored a hit. When the rats subsequently visited a different chamber, they busily pressed a lever that turned on the light, even if no cocaine was forthcoming. © 2005 by the American Association for the Advancement of Science. |
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