This photo represents Cuesta et al.’s demonstration that cocaine exposure increases norepinephrine in the gut facilitating γ-Proteobacteria colonization. This gut microbiota shift toward γ-Proteobacteria leads to a depletion of glycine from the host, which, in turn, facilitates cocaine-induced addiction-like behaviors in mice. Credit: Florencia Cerchiara
Common gut bacteria can enhance the effects of cocaine in mice, according to a report published recently in the journal Cell Host & Microbe.
This study demonstrates how cocaine usage promotes the growth of gut bacteria, which in turn consume glycine, a chemical that contributes to normal brain function. As levels of glycine become depleted, mice exhibit a stronger response to cocaine with behavior abnormalities, such as substantially increasing drug-induced locomotion and seeking behaviors.
In addition, by supplementing glycine back systemically or using a genetically modified bacteria that cannot use glycine, the response of the mice to cocaine falls back to normal levels. This demonstrates that this simple amino DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2022.09.014
Financial support was provided by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
