Modeling methamphetamine use disorder in mammals: Sex differences in behavioral, biochemical, and transcriptional consequences

Abstract

Methamphetamine (METH) is the most commonly misused amphetamine-type stimulant throughout the globe. METH is very rewarding, and its misuse can lead to a diagnosis of METH use disorder (MUD). Although METH use is observed in both sexes, there are, however, reported differences in the clinical manifestations of METH use and its consequences. These observations indicate the need for more research on the long-term sex-dependent consequences of METH taking in both preclinical and clinical settings. In effect, sex is a biological variable that can impact conclusions drawn from various basic and clinical studies. Thus, the present chapter provides a succinct review of the current state of the research on METH and its sex-associated consequences. In addition to behavioral and cognitive aspects of METH use, we discuss METH-induced changes in neurotransmitter systems and structures in the brain. Thus, the book chapter serves to highlight the significance of sex as a critical element that needs to be considered during discussions of novel therapeutic approaches to MUD.

Keywords: Animal model; Genetics; Methamphetamine; Neuropsychiatric complications; Sex differences.