A gene that plays an important role in development of autism also plays a role in addiction-related behaviors, a new study found.
Researchers conducted experiments on animal models and found that the fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) greatly influences the development of addiction-related behaviors. According to the researchers, the fragile X mental retardation protein is also the protein missing in Fragile X Syndrome that is the leading single-gene cause of autism and intellectual disability.
The study findings show that cocaine uses the fragile X mental retardation protein to activate brain changes involved in addiction-related behaviors. Furthermore, the researchers also found that the protein plays an important role in modifying the brain connections following repeated cocaine exposure.
"In our lab, we investigate the brain mechanisms behind drug addiction - a common and devastating disease with limited treatment options," lead researcher professor Christopher Cowan, director of the Integrated Neurobiology Laboratory at McLean said in a news release.
He explained that constant exposure to drug abuse leads to changes in the brain that could cause the transition from casual drug use to addiction.
"We know that experiences are able to modify the brain in important ways. Some of these brain changes help us, by allowing us to learn and remember. Other changes are harmful, such as those that occur in individuals struggling with drug abuse," researchers said.
The researchers further stated that FMRP allows individuals to learn and remember things properly. It also controls how the brain responds to cocaine and strengthens drug behavior. "By better understanding FMRP's role in this process, we may someday be able to suggest effective therapeutic options to prevent or reverse these changes."
The findings are published in the journal 'Neuron.'
