The primary purpose of this book and its companion volumeThe Neuropharmacology of Nicotine Dependence is to explore the ways in which recent studies on nicotine and its role in tobacco addiction have opened our eyes to the psychopharmacological properties of this unique and fascinating drug. While the present volume considers the molecular and genetic factors which influence behavioral responses to nicotine and how these may impact on the role of nicotine in tobacco dependence, the bookThe Neuropharmacology of Nicotine Dependence focuses on the complex neural and psychological mechanisms that mediate nicotine dependence in experimental animal models and their relationship to tobacco addiction in humans.
These volumes will provide readers with a contemporary overview of current research on nicotine psychopharmacology and its role in tobacco dependence from leaders in this field of research and will hopefully prove valuable to those who are developing their own research programmes in this important topic.
Preface.- Structure and function of neuronal nicotinic receptors. Genetics of smoking behaviour. Pharmacogenetics of Nicotine and Associated Smoking Behaviors. Heterogeneity Across Brain Regions and Neurotransmitter Interactions. Nicotinic Receptors and Attention. Nicotinic Receptors, Memory, and Hippocampus. A Hierarchical Instrumental Decision Theory of Nicotine Dependence. Smoking Abstinence and Neurocognition: Implications for Cessation and Relapse.
