Unique interaction discovered between brain regions involved in addiction, depression

NIDA IRP researchers have discovered a unique interaction between a nerve cell in the brain’s ventral tegmental area and the lateral habenula - a pathway implicated in mental health disorders such as addiction and depression. This nerve cell releases both excitatory (glutamate) and inhibitory (GABA) chemicals, contrary to long-established theories assuming release of a single chemical (either glutamate or GABA).

Unique interaction discovered between brain regions involved in addiction, depression

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This page was last updated on Friday, January 21, 2022