detect DeltaFosB in the brain of 15 heroin addicts, nine days after they died.

Every major study focused on DeltaFosB has involved animal experiments under certain conditions, such as responses to conditions under cocaine exposure.

Seltenhammer’s study used human subjects and focused on opioid abuse, which is a growing problem around the world.

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A 2001 animal study showed that DeltaFosB increased an animal’s sensitivity to cocaine and may represent a mechanism for prolonged sensitization not only to cocaine but to other drugs. The study also showed that DeltaFosB may also increase the propensity for relapse since it heightens the motivational properties of drugs.

“Thus, DeltaFosB may function as a sustained ‘molecular switch’ that helps initiate and then maintain crucial aspects of the addicted state,” researchers wrote. The protein also plays a role in behaviors toward food, sex, and exercise.

Dr. Eric Nestler, who led the 2001 animal study compared to a molecular switch. “Once it’s flipped on, it stays on and doesn’t go away easily.”

Livia Areas-Holmblad
Author: Livia Areas-Holmblad

Livia Holmblad is an editor at Addiction Now and covers breaking news, features and everything in between. She moved to SoCal after living in NYC for about 10 years, where she worked for VICE and SinoVision as a writer, editor, host, producer, and director. Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro. Contact Livia at liviah@addictionnow.com

Summary
Cravings for heroin persists in the brain nine days after death, new study shows
Article Name
Cravings for heroin persists in the brain nine days after death, new study shows
Description
A new study conducted by the Medical University of Vienna found that cravings endured by those who suffer from an opioid substance use disorder can persist in the brain even after the individual dies. The study is important because it provides insight into more effective aftercare treatment.
Author
Livia Areas-Holmblad
Publisher Name
Addiction Now