Circadian clock genes: effects on dopamine, reward and addiction

Alcohol. 2015 Jun;49(4):341-9. doi: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2014.09.034. Epub 2015 Jan 8.

Abstract

Addiction is a widespread public health issue with social and economic ramifications. Substance abuse disorders are often accompanied by disruptions in circadian rhythms including sleep/wake cycles, which can exacerbate symptoms of addiction and dependence. Additionally, genetic disturbance of circadian molecular mechanisms can predispose some individuals to substance abuse disorders. In this review, we will discuss how circadian genes can regulate midbrain dopaminergic activity and subsequently, drug intake and reward. We will also suggest future directions for research on circadian genes and drugs of abuse.

Keywords: Addiction; Alcohol; Circadian; Dopamine.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alcoholism / genetics*
  • Alcoholism / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Behavior, Addictive / genetics
  • Behavior, Addictive / metabolism
  • Central Nervous System Depressants / pharmacology
  • Circadian Clocks / drug effects
  • Circadian Clocks / genetics*
  • Circadian Rhythm / drug effects
  • Circadian Rhythm / genetics*
  • Circadian Rhythm Signaling Peptides and Proteins / drug effects
  • Circadian Rhythm Signaling Peptides and Proteins / genetics*
  • Dopamine / metabolism*
  • Ethanol / pharmacology
  • Gene Expression / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Mesencephalon / drug effects
  • Mesencephalon / metabolism*
  • Reward*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / genetics
  • Substance-Related Disorders / metabolism

Substances

  • Central Nervous System Depressants
  • Circadian Rhythm Signaling Peptides and Proteins
  • Ethanol
  • Dopamine