Connectivity of the neuronal network for contextual fear memory is disrupted in a mouse model of third-trimester binge-like ethanol exposure.

Background: In rodents, third-trimester-equivalent alcohol exposure (TTAE) produces significant deficits in hippocampal-dependent memory processes such as contextual fear conditioning (CFC). The present study sought to characterize changes in both behavior and Fos neurons following CFC in ethanol (EtOH)-treated versus saline-treated mice using TRAP2:Ai14 mice that permanently label Fos neurons following a tamoxifen injection. We hypothesized that TTAE would produce long-lasting disruptions to the networks engaged following CFC with a particular emphasis on the limbic memory system.

Blocking serotonin 2A (5-HT) receptors attenuates the acquisition of methamphetamine-induced conditioned place preference in adult female rats.

Methamphetamine withdrawal can induce intense cravings leading to relapse. Contexts/cues paired with chronic methamphetamine use develop incentive motivational properties, promoting future drug-seeking and taking behavior. Research has shown that, in adult male rats, the selective 5-HT receptor antagonist M100907 attenuates the acquisition of methamphetamine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP), a measure that examines conditioned associations between the rewarding properties of drugs and contexts.