Targeting mitochondrial dynamics of morphine-responsive dopaminergic neurons ameliorates opiate withdrawal.

ABSTRACT: Converging studies demonstrate the dysfunction of the dopaminergic neurons following chronic opioid administration. However, the therapeutic strategies targeting opioid-responsive dopaminergic ensembles that contribute to the development of opioid withdrawal remain to be elucidated. Here, we used the neuronal activity-dependent Tet-Off system to label dopaminergic ensembles in response to initial morphine exposure (Mor-Ens) in the ventral tegmental area (VTA). Fiber optic photometry recording and transcriptome analysis revealed downregulated spontaneous activity and dysregulated mitochondrial respiratory, ultrastructure, and oxidoreductase signal pathways after chronic morphine administration in these dopaminergic ensembles. Mitochondrial fragmentation and the decreased mitochondrial fusio

SUBMITTER: Jiang C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10904060 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature