Delta FosB-mediated alterations in dopamine signaling are normalized by a palatable high-fat diet.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Sensitivity to reward has been implicated as a predisposing factor for behaviors related to drug abuse as well as overeating. However, the underlying mechanisms contributing to reward sensitivity are unknown. We hypothesized that a dysregulation in dopamine signaling might be an underlying cause of heightened reward sensitivity whereby rewarding stimuli could act to normalize the system.

Methods

We used a genetic mouse model of increased reward sensitivity, the Delta FosB-overexpressing mouse, to examine reward pathway changes in response to a palatable high-fat diet. Markers of reward signaling in these mice were examined both basally and following 6 weeks of palatable diet exposure. Mice were examined in a behavioral test following high-fat diet withdrawal to as

SUBMITTER: Teegarden SL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2582592 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature