Orexin/hypocretin receptor 2 (HCRTR2) in alcohol dependence diagnosis and severity: Role of HCRTR2 rs2653349 polymorphism

Preclinical studies have implicated the hypocretin/orexin system, and specifically the orexin/hypocretin receptor 1 (HCRTR1), in both alcohol and drug-seeking behaviors and stress. Recently, the role of HCRTR 2 in mediating addictive behaviors has emerged. Selective HCRTR2 antagonism has been shown to reduce both ethanol and heroin self-administration. In humans, the nonsynonymous HCRTR2 rs2653349 (1246G>A) polymorphism has been associated with increased risk for nicotine and methamphetamine use, and with panic disorders.
Source: Alcohol - Category: Addiction Authors: Source Type: research