Structural imaging for addiction medicine: From neurostructure to neuroplasticity

Progress in Brain Research
Gregory G BrownBenjamin McKenna

Abstract

Quantitative morphometry and diffusion tensor imaging have provided new insights into structural brain changes associated with drugs of abuse. In this chapter, we review recent studies using these methods to investigate structural brain abnormalities associated with excessive use of marijuana, stimulants, and opiates. Although many brain regions have been associated with structural abnormalities following abuse of these drugs, brain systems underlying inhibition, mood regulation, and reward are particularly involved. Candidate pathological mechanisms underlying these structural abnormalities include the direct toxic effects of the drugs, neuroinflammation, ischemia, hemorrhage, and abnormal brain development. Returning damaged brain areas to neural health would involve enhancing neuroplasticity. Behavioral, environmental, pharmacological, and cell-based therapies have been correlated with enhanced neuroplasticity following brain injury, providing a basis for new treatments of brain changes associated with excessive drug use. When testing new treatments, structural imaging may prove useful in selecting patients, monitoring recovery, and perhaps, tailoring interventions.

Citations

Apr 24, 2020·Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research·Natasha E WadeKrista M Lisdahl
Nov 10, 2020·American Journal of Physiology. Heart and Circulatory Physiology·Aaron L AlbuckPrasad V G Katakam
Nov 13, 2020·Pediatric Research·Stephanie L MerharNehal A Parikh

❮ Previous
Next ❯

Related Concepts

Related Feeds

CREs: Gene & Cell Therapy

Gene and cell therapy advances have shown promising outcomes for several diseases. The role of cis-regulatory elements (CREs) is crucial in the design of gene therapy vectors. Here is the latest research on CREs in gene and cell therapy.

Addiction

This feed focuses mechanisms underlying addiction and addictive behaviour including heroin and opium dependence, alcohol intoxication, gambling, and tobacco addiction.

Brain Ischemia

Brain ischemia is a condition in which there is insufficient blood flow to the brain to meet metabolic demand. Discover the latest research on brain ischemia here.

Anti-inflammatory Treatments

A drug or substance that reduces inflammation (redness, swelling, and pain) in the body. Anti-inflammatory agents block certain substances in the body that cause inflammation and swelling. Discover the latest research on anti-inflammatory treatments here

Antiparasitics

Antiparasitics are medications which are indicated for the treatment of parasitic diseases. Discover the latest research on antiparasitics here.

Allogenic & Autologous Therapies

Allogenic therapies are generated in large batches from unrelated donor tissues such as bone marrow. In contrast, autologous therapies are manufactures as a single lot from the patient being treated. Here is the latest research on allogenic and autologous therapies.

Brain Injury & Trauma

brain injury after impact to the head is due to both immediate mechanical effects and delayed responses of neural tissues.

© 2021 Meta ULC. All rights reserved