Your brain on nicotine: Nicotine receptors affect social behavior
Thursday, June 30, 2011 - 12:30
in Psychology & Sociology
No longer assume that nicotine receptors are only important to smokers trying to quit. Research suggests that these receptors are important in social interaction and the ability to choose between competing motivations. Scientists show that prefrontal cortex nicotinic receptors are essential for social interaction in mice, with this area of the brain necessary for balanced social interactions. This knowledge could lead to treatments for ADHD, schizophrenia and depression.