[ad_1]
The rats were cured of alcoholism by receiving laser beams on their brains, thus ending their addiction with a simple "tipping over," revealed a new exciting research.
Scripps Research scientists have triggered lasers on specific neurons in the brain of alcohol-dependent rats, freeing rats from the desire to drink and reducing the physical symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal.
However, as soon as the lasers are extinguished, the symptoms of dependence will return.
The researchers identified a "Specific neuronal population in a deep brain region that is activated during alcohol weaning and controls alcohol consumption in a rodent alcoholism pattern" Olivier George, associate professor at Scripps Research, told Digital Trends.
They also identified the pathways that these corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) neurons use to control other parts of the brain, which produces addictive behaviors.
The team then used optogenetics, which uses light to control cells, to manipulate neurons. Optical fibers were implanted deep in the brain before being used to illuminate CRF neurons to inhibit them.
Although the idea of energizing brains with lasers to change their function may have alarming consequences on mental control in the future, scientists have said that it could leak out of control. decades before the method could be tested on humans, and up to 30 years before alcoholics could be equipped with brain implants.
The research was published in Nature Communications.
Do you like this story? Share it with a friend!
[ad_2]
Source link