Nature Podcast

Fentanyl addiction: the brain pathways behind the opioid crisis

May 22, 2024

The podcast delves into the neuroscience of fentanyl addiction, revealing two brain circuits at play. It discusses innovative research using 'assembloid' for drug delivery to the brain and an edible gel for alcohol intoxication. Furthermore, it explores legal action by babies against the South Korean government and Europe's nuclear-powered heater for Mars missions.

20:23

Creator website

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Fentanyl addiction involves two brain circuits - positive feelings and intense withdrawal.

Understanding distinct brain pathways in opioid addiction can lead to less addictive pain relief drugs.

Deep dives

Understanding Opioid Addiction Mechanisms in the Brain

Opioids like Bentonil are highly addictive due to their effects on the brain. They create feelings of reward when taken and aversive states during withdrawal. Researchers have identified two distinct pathways in the brain responsible for these effects, shedding light on the neuronal mechanisms of addiction. This understanding could lead to the development of less addictive pain relief drugs.

Introduction

2min

Understanding Opioid Addiction Mechanisms and Treatment Advances

13min

Legal Action and Climate Ambitions in South Korea

2min

Innovative Nuclear Heater for Space Missions

5min

Closing Remarks, Sponsor Messages, and Sign Off

2min

00:45 The neuroscience of fentanyl addiction

Research in mice has shown that fentanyl addiction is the result of two brain circuits working in tandem, rather than a single neural pathway as had been previously thought. One circuit underlies the positive feelings this powerful drug elicits, which the other was responsible for the intense withdrawal when it is taken away. Opioid addiction leads to tens of thousands of deaths each year, and the team hopes that this work will help in the development of drugs that are less addictive.

Research Article: Chaudun et al.

09:16 Research Highlights

How an ‘assembloid’ could transform how scientists study drug delivery to the brain, and an edible gel that prevents and treats alcohol intoxication in mice.

Research Highlight: Organoids merge to model the blood–brain barrier

Research Highlight: How cheesemaking could cook up an antidote for alcohol excess