UNIGE researchers find fentanyl activates distinct brain pathways for euphoria and withdrawal, potentially aiding in less addictive drug development.
Researchers at UNIGE have discovered that fentanyl activates two distinct brain pathways, challenging existing models of opioid addiction. The drug triggers dopamine neurons in the mesolimbic system for euphoria but also activates cells expressing the mu receptor in the central amygdala for withdrawal. This finding may contribute to developing less addictive drugs and targeted treatments.
May 22, 2024
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