Exploring Changes in the Protein Expression Profile at the Synapse During Morphine Addiction
(Click name for more information)
Numerous studies have shown that opiates, such as morphine, produce significant and persistent neuronal adaptations in various brain regions involved in addiction. Opiate-induced changes in neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity are thought to bring about their long-lasting effects; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying these changes are not well understood. In order to address this, our laboratory has undertaken a systematic characterization of the effects of morphine on synaptic proteins and neuropeptides using a proteomic approach. This involves the use of quantitative proteomic techniques, including differential isotopic labeling and differential in-gel electrophoresis to study the effects of chronic morphine administration on synaptic proteins or neuropeptides isolated from brain regions of interest.
These neuroproteomic studies will provide insight into the global changes in synaptic protein and neuropeptide profiles during morphine addiction. Furthermore, this information will be integrated using a graph theory-based systems biology approach. Such an analysis will help delineate morphine-induced changes in synaptic protein complexes and regulatory networks. This will serve as a starting point to elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying opiate addiction, as synaptic proteins, neuropeptides, and underlying regulatory networks that are altered by morphine treatment are likely to be involved in opiate-induced plasticity.
|
