A new study hones in on one particular region of the zebrafish brain which could provide better understanding of the neural circuitry underlying nicotine addiction.
In utero exposure to nicotine could increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, researchers report. The findings raise concerns about both smoking and the use of nicotine replacement therapies during pregnancy.
Researchers report if specific neurons in the VTA which are active both when using and withdrawing from nicotine.
Smokers may have reduced neuroimmune function compared to their non-smoking peers. Researchers report restoring the immune system may benefit smokers. Immune dysfunction is linked to cognitive dysfunction.
A new study reveals researchers have identified areas of the brain which are different in those who regularly smoke and drink alcohol. Researchers discovered the medial orbitofrontal cortex, an area of the brain implicated in reward, has higher functional connectivity in drinkers. In those who smoke, the lateral orbiotfrontal cortex, an area of the brain linked to impulsive behavior, has lower functional connectivity. The study suggests nicotine may increase overall brain connectivity, which may lead to increased smoking behaviors.
Mixing traditional cigarettes with vaping products is as detrimental to health as smoking cigarettes alone, a new study reports.
Researchers report allowing smokers to dictate their nicotine intake while trying to quit makes them more likely to succeed. Results suggest most smokers who use nicotine replacement medications can tolerate doses that are four times higher than normally recommended.
Researchers discover an enzyme that seeks and destroys nicotine before it hits the brain. The discovery could lead to new therapies to help people quit smoking.
Being in pain and taking illicit substances can lead to a vicious cycle that ultimately worsens and maintains both addiction and pain.
New research suggests the high relapse rate in smokers could be explained by diminished connectivity in key brain networks.
Researchers have crystallized a protein that could hold the answer as to how nicotine addiction occurs in the brain.
Penn State researchers report nicotine withdrawal may blunt working memory and cognitive processing.
