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Home Q & A Board Science-Related Homework Help Psychology
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dt00108842 dt00108842
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6 years ago
Describe the changes in reward mechanisms that modulate the early reinforcing effects of drugs versus the later compulsive aspect of drug taking.
 
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6 years ago
Answer: Acute drug administration activates the nucleus accumbens via the ventral tegmental area (VTA). A key aspect of the early drug process involves the insertion of AMPA receptors into the membranes of the VTA (which increases their excitability). Continued drug use leads to synaptic plasticity in regions that communicate with the VTA (especially the dorsal striatum). Of note, the dorsal striatum is important for establishing motor habits, which could contribute to the compulsive nature of drug abuse.
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