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Review
. 2024;31(39):6393-6406.
doi: 10.2174/0109298673248999231013043249.

The Roles of Endogenous D2R Dopamine and μ-opioid Receptors of the Brain in Alcohol use Disorder

Kamila Khikhmetova  1 , Yuliya Semenova  1 , Geir Bjørklund  2
Affiliations
Review

The Roles of Endogenous D2R Dopamine and μ-opioid Receptors of the Brain in Alcohol use Disorder

Kamila Khikhmetova et al. Curr Med Chem. 2024.

Abstract

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by a strong physiological and psychological craving to consume large amounts of alcohol despite adverse consequences. Alcohol use disorder carries a large health and economic burden on society. Despite its prevalence, AUD is still severely undertreated. The precise molecular mechanisms of how alcohol addiction forms are yet unknown. However, previous studies on animal models show that along with the μ-opioid receptors, the D2R dopamine receptors may also be involved in alcohol craving and reward pathways. Currently, there is a limited number of treatment strategies for alcohol use disorder, which include several medications and therapy. By understanding the limitations of current treatment options and exploring new potential targets, it could be possible to find more effective ways of treating AUD in the future.

Keywords: Alcohol; D2R dopamine receptors.; alcohol dependence treatment; alcohol use disorder; dopamine receptors; opioid receptors.

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