Heavy alcohol consumption creates a vicious cycle that affects cognitive functions like decision-making and impulse control, leading individuals to drink even more. Researchers believe that the brain’s immune system plays a significant role in this process.
Florence Varodayan, an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Binghamton University, State University of New York, recently published an article in the journal Brain, Behavior and Immunity. Collaborating with other scientists from various institutions, Varodayan’s research focused on the immune signaling molecule IL-1ß and its role in alcohol use disorder (AUD).
Previous studies have shown that individuals with certain gene mutations for IL-1ß are more likely to develop heavy drinking habits. Autopsies of people with AUD have also revealed higher levels of IL-1ß in their brains. The neuroimmune system, which is responsible for eliminating pathogens and promoting healing in the brain, is mildly activated by alcohol consumption. This activation, though weaker than that caused by pathogens or injuries, persists and accumulates over time as a person drinks more heavily and frequently.
Varodayan’s study found that alcohol-dependent mice had twice as many cells producing IL-1ß in the medial prefrontal cortex, a brain region responsible for regulating cognitive function. In these mice, IL-1ß increased inflammation and the release of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which regulates neural activity. These changes continued even when the mice stopped consuming alcohol.
The neuroimmune system’s response to pathogens or injuries involves the release of IL-1ß, which triggers a short-lived inflammatory response to resolve the issue. The system then releases anti-inflammatory factors to promote healing. However, in the case of chronic alcohol consumption, ongoing inflammation can lead to widespread, irrecoverable neuron damage.
Researchers believe that the impact of heavy alcohol use on neuroimmune signaling is connected to the cognitive decline observed in individuals with AUD. This understanding could potentially lead to better treatment options for substance abuse. Drugs that block IL-1ß activity have already been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
Key Takeaways in a Nutshell – Health Newstrack
– Heavy alcohol consumption creates a vicious cycle that affects cognitive functions, leading to more drinking.
– The brain’s immune system, or neuroimmune system, is believed to play a significant role in alcohol use disorder (AUD).
– Research has shown that alcohol-dependent mice have higher levels of IL-1ß in the medial prefrontal cortex, a brain region responsible for cognitive function regulation.
– Chronic alcohol consumption can cause ongoing inflammation and widespread, irrecoverable neuron damage in the brain.
– Understanding the role of neuroimmune signaling in AUD could potentially lead to improved treatment options for substance abuse, including drugs that block IL-1ß activity.