A non-parametric approach identifies a new gene–gene interaction associated with progression of nicotine dependence

Abstract

reported the effects of a TAAR1 agonist RO5263397 on some abuserelated effects of cocaine in rats. Methods: Cocaine-induced behavioral sensitization, cocaineinduced conditioned place preference and intravenous cocaine self-administration studies were conducted to evaluate the effects of RO5263397 on these behavioral effects of cocaine. Results: RO5263397 (3.2–10mg/kg, i.p.) dose-dependently attenuated the development of behavioral sensitization to daily 10mg/kg cocaine administration. RO5263397 (3.2–10mg/kg) attenuated the expression of cocaine-induced conditioned place preference. Behavioral economic analyses revealed that RO5263397 (5.6mg/kg) significantly increased the elasticity of the cocaine (0.75mg/kg/infusion) demand curve. RO5263397 (3.2–10mg/kg) alsomarkedly decreased cueand cocaine-induced reinstatement of cocaine seeking behavior. Conclusions: These results suggest that RO5263397 attenuates various abuse-related effects of cocaine and that TAAR 1 may represent a novel drug target for the development of novel pharmacotherapy against cocaine abuse. Financial support: Supported by R21DA033426.