Neuronal mechanisms of ethanol sensitivity

Abstract

Lesion studies have suggested that different behavioural effects of ethanol are separate behavioural phenomena, caused by specific effects of ethanol on separate and independent neuronal mechanisms. Such a conclusion can also be drawn from behavioural studies showing that the AT (Alcohol Tolerant) and ANT (Alcohol Nontolerant) rat lines selected for differential ethanol-induced motor impairment, do not differ in all components of ethanol intoxication. Furthermore, neurochemical work has demonstrated differences in the functioning and the sensitivity to ethanol in catecholaminergic and GABAergic mechanisms between the lines, suggesting a role for both of these systems in the control of ethanol-induced motor impairment.