CRF and urocortin peptides mediate the stress component of addiction to cannabis, nicotine, and alcohol, with CRF1 receptor activation driving withdrawal-induced anxiety that perpetuates substance use.
Key findingCRF/urocortin system activation drives the stress/withdrawal component of cannabis, nicotine, and alcohol dependence through CRF1-mediated anxiety dur
What the researchers found
CRF/urocortin system activation drives the stress/withdrawal component of cannabis, nicotine, and alcohol dependence through CRF1-mediated anxiety during abstinence, creating a negative reinforcement cycle that maintains substance use.
Why it matters
Relevant for neuropeptides, addiction, anxiety-mood.
How the study worked
review study on neuropeptides, addiction.
What this study cannot tell us
See abstract.
How to read the evidence
moderate evidence.
When this study was published
Published in 2005.
The bigger picture
Advances peptide research with translational implications.
Questions still open
- Further research needed.
- Clinical translation to evaluate.
Common questions
What was studied?
What was found?
Read the original research
The role of corticotropin-releasing factor-like peptides in cannabis, nicotine, and alcohol dependence.
Brain research. Brain research reviews, 49(3), 505-28
Citation
Bruijnzeel, Adrie W; Gold, Mark S. (2005). The role of corticotropin-releasing factor-like peptides in cannabis, nicotine, and alcohol dependence.. Brain research. Brain research reviews, 49(3), 505-28.