Microglia Control Escalation of Drinking in Alcohol-Dependent Mice: Genomic and Synaptic Drivers.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Microglia, the primary immune cells of the brain, are implicated in alcohol use disorder. However, it is not known if microglial activation contributes to the transition from alcohol use to alcohol use disorder or is a consequence of alcohol intake.

Methods

We investigated the role of microglia in a mouse model of alcohol dependence using a colony stimulating factor 1 receptor inhibitor (PLX5622) to deplete microglia and a chronic intermittent ethanol vapor two-bottle choice drinking procedure. Additionally, we examined anxiety-like behavior during withdrawal. We then analyzed synaptic neuroadaptations in the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) and gene expression changes in the medial prefrontal cortex and CeA from the same animals used for behavioral studies.<

SUBMITTER: Warden AS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7674270 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature