The participation of CB1 cannabinoid receptor during the development of methamphetamine addiction:significance in mesolimbic dopamine pathway

The purpose of this grant proposal is to identify the role of cannabinoid receptor CB1 during the development of methamphetamine (METH) sensitization. We will examine first if CB1 expression altered after chronic methamphetamine treatment, in both protein and mRNA levels. Second, we will treat with CB1 antagonist during either the daily METH injection or at the withdrawal period to delineate the effect of CB1 on METH initiation or behavioral expression stage. In addition, we will examine in vitro in CB1 transfected PC-12 cells the particular signal pathway, such as MAPK, PI3K/Akt/GSK3 signaling. Once the down-steam signal identificed, we will examine in METH-addicted rats if there is similar signal alteration in the nucleus accumbens, the key brain area involve in behavioral sensitization. We believe throught these experiments, we will be able to understand the significance of CB1 receptor on METH addiction.

Project ID:PG9312-0932
External Project ID:DOH94-NNB-1028