New research could pave way to anti-smoking treatment

By Staff Writer

Millions of teens in the U.S. smoke cigarettes, which increases their chances of developing a variety of health problems. Furthermore, past studies have shown that early smokers are more likely to encounter academic and behavioral issues during adolescence.

Researchers from The Scripps Research Institute have released a study that reveals certain brain activity that may explain nicotine addiction. The study, which appears in the journal Nature, examined proteins called nicotine acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), which contain subunits. The team studied the role of one of these subunits - a5 nAChRS - in regulating nicotine consumption in test mice.

When the a5 subunits were decreased in a mouse's brain - through genetic mutation - the animal was more aggressive in seeking higher doses of nicotine. When the subunit was unaltered, the mice showed more restraint. Researchers concluded that a5 subunits do not function properly, the brain is less responsive to the negative feedback of nicotine and much more of the drug can be consumed.

The scientists are hopeful that this discovery will lead to products that can boost a5 nAChR signaling, which may decrease the addictive properties in nicotine.

Adolescents who smoke cigarettes may benefit from therapeutic boarding schools, which aim to provide help for troubled teens.