Distinct interneuronal dynamics selectively gate target-specific cortical projections in drug seeking - PubMed
3 hours ago
- #vmPFC
- #drug addiction
- #interneurons
- Drug craving persists after prolonged abstinence, posing a major challenge in treating substance use disorders.
- The ventral medial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) plays a critical role in impulsivity and decision-making, and is a promising target for mitigating drug craving.
- Distinct vmPFC sub-circuits, defined by cell-type-specific interneurons and projection-specific cortical outputs, differentially modulate mesolimbic pathways to drive drug-seeking behavior.
- Parvalbumin (PV)-positive interneurons exhibit target-specific synaptic remodeling with pyramidal neurons, crucial for modulating mesolimbic circuits and driving persistent cocaine seeking after abstinence.
- The study provides insights into vmPFC microcircuit mechanisms underlying substance use disorders.