The role of matrix metalloproteinase-9 in negative reinforcement learning and plasticity in alcohol dependence.

ABSTRACT: A role for matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in plasticity-dependent learning has been established. MMPs degrade the extracellular matrix (ECM) when synaptic reorganization is warranted. Previously, we showed that escalation of alcohol self-administration is a learned plasticity-dependent process that requires an intact MMP system. To identify the MMP subtypes within specific brain regions that are associated with plasticity underlying the negative reinforcing effects of alcohol (as measured by escalated alcohol self-administration) during acute withdrawal in alcohol dependence, male Wistar rats were trained to self-administer alcohol in an operant paradigm, subjected to one month of intermittent alcohol vapor exposure to induce alcohol dependence and then allowed to self-administer alcohol

SUBMITTER: Go BS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6635097 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature