We all know that heavy drinkers damage their brains, but new research shows that consequences can be even more damaging than we thought.
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) involves a destructive cycle between brain changes and unusual behaviors.
Let's find out more.
A new experiment
Specialists at Scripps Research found elevated levels of the immune signaling molecule IL-1 in the brains of alcohol-dependent mice.
This molecule triggers inflammation in decision-making brain areas, potentially explaining impulsive behavior in AUD.
Targeting IL-1 with existing anti-inflammatory drugs offers a potential treatment for AUD.
People with some specific mutations in the IL-1 gene are more susceptible to AUD, and autopsies of people with AUD reveal higher IL-1 levels in the brain.
The alcohol-dependent mice had double the IL-1 levels in the medial prefrontal cortex compared to controls.
IL-1 signaling in alcohol-dependent mice was altered, activating pro-inflammatory responses and elevating GABA levels, contributing to changes in brain activity.
Drugs inhibiting IL-1 are FDA-approved for treating these inflammatory conditions.
Further research will explore their potential for treating AUD.
