Deep brain stimulation can reduce heroin-seeking behavior in standard rat models of addiction, according to researchers at The Scripps Research Institute [2].
This finding is significant because addiction follows a relatively well-defined neural pathway. Identifying specific brain-circuit targets could lead to the development of brain-stimulation therapies for humans struggling with substance abuse [1, 2].
The study, conducted at the institute in La Jolla, California, utilized deep brain stimulation, or DBS, to target the nucleus accumbens [2]. This region of the brain is closely linked to the reward system. The researchers observed a reduction in the rats' drive to seek heroin after the stimulation was applied [2].
“Our findings suggest that DBS targeting the nucleus accumbens can significantly diminish drug-seeking behavior in animal models,” a lead author of the study said [2].
The research team aims to use these animal models to map the precise interactions between neural circuits and drug cravings. By stimulating these areas, the team hopes to disrupt the cycle of relapse that often characterizes addiction [1, 2].
While the results are currently limited to animal models, the study provides a foundation for future clinical trials. The researchers believe that the ability to modulate the nucleus accumbens could eventually provide a medical intervention for patients who do not respond to traditional behavioral therapies [2].
“Deep brain stimulation can markedly reduce heroin-seeking behavior in standard rat models of addiction.”
This research shifts the focus of addiction treatment from purely behavioral or chemical interventions to neuromodulation. By demonstrating that electrical stimulation can suppress the biological drive for heroin in rats, the study suggests that addiction may be treatable as a circuit-based neurological disorder rather than solely a psychological or willpower-based struggle.
