New research involving a scientifically engineered protein in the brain shows promise in addressing neurobiological aspects of addiction. This treatment approach may be able to rewire brain circuits associated with addiction to prevent the reinforcing and rewarding response to cocaine.
What are designer proteins?
Designer proteins are artificially created proteins designed by scientists for a specific purpose. In this case, designer ion channels are modified proteins, designed to replicate the activity of naturally occurring ion channels, with the specific purpose of being activated by cocaine. [1]
The UCSD study: How scientists rewired addiction circuits
Researchers from the University of California San Diego (UCSD) and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) conducted a study on rats to evaluate the effect of these designer ion channel proteins. [2]
The researchers utilized the engineered proteins in the rats’ brains, in the lateral habenula (LHb), which is involved in reward and motivation regulation. When cocaine was present, these ions became activated in the LHb, causing dopamine release to be suppressed. [1][2]
As such, the activated ions prevented the positive feedback loop that is normally prompted by cocaine use, thereby decreasing the seeking and consumption of cocaine. This approach can reduce drug use without affecting the enjoyment and pleasure of natural rewards, such as food and exercise. [2]
As such, this treatment could help rewire the brain, preventing the reinforcing and rewarding effects of cocaine without impacting other reward systems.
Why this matters for addiction treatment
The development of addiction is associated with several different factors, including the reinforcement of substance use associated with the brain’s reward circuit. Drugs impact dopamine release, leading to repeated use and neural changes. The ability to target this specific aspect of drug addiction development can interrupt this reinforcement loop and prevent the development or continuation of addictive behaviors. [1]
This could lead to new and effective treatments, helping people with substance use issues to cease drug use, while retaining or regaining their enjoyment in natural and healthy activities.
Currently, addiction treatment focuses on behavioral therapeutic interventions and medications. This research can help pave the way for the development of new, unique approaches, concentrating on addressing the neurobiological mechanisms that underpin addiction. [3][4]
Limitations and what we don't know yet
Limitations and further considerations of this study include: [1][2][5]
- Whether this applies in the same way to the human brain, as this study was conducted with rats.
- The scientifically engineered proteins are activated only by cocaine. Additional research is required to determine if this same approach can be used and is as effective when applied to other substances.
- Further research will be needed to discover the long-term impact of this approach, including whether adverse effects will occur over time or if the beneficial effects of the procedure can continue long-term.
- Studies will be necessary to ascertain how this approach impacts other pleasure and reward systems, including those relating to food and exercise, when applied to humans and in longer-term use.
The future of addiction science
This type of research can benefit the future of addiction, improving understanding and treatment of substance use issues. Current addiction treatments can lead to successful outcomes. However, research suggests that 40-60% of people who utilize addiction treatment will relapse, highlighting gaps in treatment approaches and the need for treatments that provide long-term changes. [4]
Protein-based therapies could be developed that meet these requirements and supplement existing treatment programs, altering neurobiological mechanisms in the long term to prevent recurring urges and relapses.
The science of addiction is continuing to advance and develop, with growing research focused on the neurobiological aspects of addiction. For example, epigenetic regulation is being increasingly researched and developed. This involves modifying DNA and proteins involved in gene activity to target specific mechanisms involved in addiction. [3][6]
Furthermore, brain stimulation therapies have been recognized in recent years as an effective approach to addiction, including deep brain stimulation (DBS) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), which target specific areas of the brain. [6]
Utilizing these approaches alongside medications and therapies could help provide a comprehensive and multifaceted treatment approach that fills treatment gaps. This could manage the various psychological, behavioral, physical, and neurobiological aspects of addiction in a way that is tailored to each individual.
Final thoughts
Further research is required to determine the effectiveness of this approach in humans. However, this research shows promise for the future of addiction treatment. This, and other developments in this field, could lead to additional treatment options that can be utilized in the treatment of various substances.
People experiencing substance use issues can, in the meantime, access a range of treatments to help with reducing and stopping substance use, including detox and withdrawal services, inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation services, and behavioral therapies.
Click here to find out more about available treatment options, and here to search the Recovered directory of local rehab centers.
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