Regulating a single gene may alter addiction and stress responses
December 25, 2014
Researchers have now used genetically engineered DNA binding proteins to target specific processes within a gene – located within a brain reward center in the mouse. By regulating the activity of this specific gene, the scientists found they were able to alter gene expression and behaviors related to addiction and stress. This technique may lead to new treatments for substance use and mental disorders. This research was funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and NIMH.