Behavioral and Genetic Markers of Fentanyl Intake Escalation
Author Information
Author(s): Keady Jack, Charnigo Richard, Shaykin Jakob D, Prantzalos Emily R, Xia Mengfan, Denehy Emily, Bumgardner Cody, Miller Justin, Ortinski Pavel, Bardo Michael, Turner Jill R
Primary Institution: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Hypothesis
Individual differences in responsivity to sucrose may predict escalation of fentanyl intake.
Conclusion
The study found that while sucrose breakpoints did not predict fentanyl acquisition, certain gene networks are associated with escalated fentanyl intake.
Supporting Evidence
- Sucrose breakpoints did not predict fentanyl acquisition.
- Gene modules linked to escalated fentanyl intake were identified.
- Transcription factors EZH2 and JARID2 were associated with escalated fentanyl intake.
- Genome-wide association study terms were positively associated with substance use disorders.
Takeaway
The way rats respond to sugar doesn't help predict how much fentanyl they'll take, but some genes are linked to taking more fentanyl.
Methodology
Male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were trained in a sucrose reinforcement task and underwent fentanyl self-administration sessions, followed by RNA sequencing and qPCR.
Limitations
The study did not find predictive associations between behavior and gene expression overall.
Participant Demographics
Male and female Sprague-Dawley rats.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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