Modeling the drug withdrawal syndrome in zebrafish (Danio rerio)

Abstract

The central pathological link in addictive states is the drug withdrawal syndrome. Usually, severe manifestations of the withdrawal syndrome are associated with reduced sensitivity of postsynaptic receptors (desensitization), lower density of receptors and impaired transport of neurotransmitters, and the rebound effect. Zebrafish is an effective tool in the study of classic withdrawal symptoms and special cases of withdrawal of other selected psychoactive drugs.