M. Kohno, J. Link, Laura E. Dennis
Jan 26, 2019
Citations
2
Influential Citations
101
Citations
Quality indicators
Journal
Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior
Abstract
ABSTRACT Addiction is a worldwide public health problem and this article reviews scientific advances in identifying the role of neuroinflammation in the genesis, maintenance, and treatment of substance use disorders. With an emphasis on neuroimaging techniques, this review examines human studies of addiction using positron emission tomography to identify binding of translocator protein (TSPO), which is upregulated in reactive glial cells and activated microglia during pathological states. High TSPO levels have been shown in methamphetamine use but exhibits variable patterns in cocaine use. Alcohol and nicotine use, however, are associated with lower TSPO levels. We discuss how mechanistic differences at the neurotransmitter and circuit level in the neural effects of these agents and subsequent immune response may explain these observations. Finally, we review the potential of anti‐inflammatory drugs, including ibudilast, minocycline, and pioglitazone, to ameliorate the behavioral and cognitive consequences of addiction. HighlightsGlial activation contributes to neural adaptations in substance use disorders.PET is a useful technique to quantify TSPO levels following chronic drug exposure.Neuroinflammation promotes addiction‐related brain and behavioral deficits.Interventions that reduce inflammation may be efficacious for substance use disorders.