Neuropharmacology and Neurochemistry

Neurochemistry of Addiction and Reward Pathways

The neurochemistry of addiction reveals how psychoactive substances alter brain signaling and reward mechanisms. This session delves into the chemical and pharmacological processes underlying substance dependence, focusing on dopamine-mediated reward circuitry in the mesolimbic pathway. Chronic exposure to drugs leads to adaptive neurochemical changes, including receptor downregulation and altered synaptic plasticity. Researchers will discuss pharmacotherapeutic interventions targeting these pathways to reverse addictive behavior. Understanding the interplay between neurochemical imbalances, genetic predisposition, and environmental factors offers insight into more effective treatment and prevention strategies for substance use disorders.