Psychology Research and Behavior Management

Advancing global addiction neuroscience in the genomic era

Addiction neuroscience is a multidisciplinary field aimed at unraveling the neural mechanisms underlying addictive behaviors, including eating disorders and behavioral addictions. Numerous neurotransmitters and second messengers contribute to overall well-being and their intricate interactions regulate the controlled release of dopamine at post-neuronal sites, particularly at the nucleus accumbens, commonly referred to as the brain's reward center. Nowadays, it is widely recognized that hypodopaminergia, either acquired and/or influenced by genetic predisposition, contributes to the development of RDS. Thus, people afflicted with RDS might turn to addictive substances in an ill-fated attempt to alleviate their symptoms due to the drugs offering temporary relief from the reward deficits. One potential solution to such deepening distress is engaging in positive and nurturing behaviors that bring about beneficial effects on gene expression and contribute to a healthier reward circuitry. The present Article Collection collects articles pertaining to addiction neuroscience including relevant genetic and epigenetic factors.