Referenced in: none

Automatically associated channels: Kir2.3

Title: Effects of ibotenic acid lesions of the ventral striatum and the medial prefrontal cortex on ethanol consumption in the rat.

Authors: S Hansen, C Fahlke, E Hård, R Thomasson

Journal, date & volume: Alcohol, 1995 Sep-Oct , 12, 397-402

PubMed link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8519433

Abstract
The purpose of this study was to to assess the effect on ethanol drinking of ibotenic acid lesions in the medial prefrontal cortex and the ventral striatum of female rats with continuous access to water and a 6% ethanol solution. Ibotenic acid infusions in the prefrontal cortex did not affect ethanol intake at any time, but a significant increase in water intake was observed on the third postoperative week. Ventral striatal lesions significantly increased ethanol intake during the first 2 postoperative weeks. On the third week consumption was not significantly different from vehicle-infused controls. Apparently, then, severe excitoxic injury to the ventral striatum is compatible with normal, or increased, intake of ethanol; in contrast, similar lesions reduce the intake of other drugs of abuse such as psychostimulants and opioids.