Abstract
Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug in the world; however, only a small proportion of people who experiment with cannabis develop an addiction to it. Genetic predisposition plays a role in vulnerability to marijuana addiction and human and animal research has begun uncovering the specific genes involved. This chapter will discuss how genetic mouse models (inbred strains as well as mouse models for gene candidates) have deepened our understanding of the development of cannabis abuse and cannabis dependence (for definition see “Cannabis abuse and dependence” below) and the mechanism involved. We will first outline the main characteristics of the endocannabinoid system, cannabis abuse and dependence in humans, and the experimental animal models that measure the addictive and reinforcing properties of cannabis. Following this we will explore the non-specific genetic factors that might be involved in the occurrence of cannabis abuse and the development of cannabis dependence (insights from both mouse and rat research will be considered). We will consider gene candidates, which have been suggested by linkage and association studies, and evaluate biological targets potentially relevant for the cannabinoid system and drug dependence. Finally, we will outline how genetic mouse model research has been critical in understanding the role of those genes/targets in the cannabinoid system and the development of cannabis use disorder (which is defined as cannabis abuse and dependence).
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Behavioral Genetics of the Mouse. Vol. 2, Genetic Mouse Models of Neurobehavioural Disorders |
Editors | Susanna Pietropaolo, Frans Sluyter, Wim E. Crusio |
Place of Publication | United Kingdom |
Publisher | Cambridge University Press |
Pages | 315-329 |
Number of pages | 15 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9781316075579 |
ISBN (Print) | 9781107044456 |
Publication status | Published - 2014 |
Keywords
- cannabinoids
- genetics
- marijuana abuse