Prefrontal circHomer1 regulates synaptic and behavioral adaptations induced by cocaine.

ABSTRACT: Substance use disorder (SUD) represents a substantial challenge in neuropsychiatric medicine, with the molecular mechanisms underlying its etiology remaining elusive. The molecular underpinnings of SUD suggest a pivotal role for circular RNAs (circRNAs) in its pathophysiology. Herein, we present a study on circHomer1, a circRNA enriched in neurons, which is abnormal expression upon cocaine exposure. Employing models of repeated cocaine exposure and conditioning place preference (CPP), alongside virus-mediated gene regulation techniques, we revealed the contribution of circHomer1 in cocaine-induced rewarding effects and synaptic adaptations. We found a notably downregulation of circHomer1 expression in the prelimbic cortex consequent to repeated cocaine exposure in both rat model and patien

SUBMITTER: Chen Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12916321 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature