Signal transduction mechanisms and behavioral sensitization to stimulant drugs: an overview of cAMP and PLA2.

Abstract Behavioral sensitization refers to the progressive increase of behavioral responses to psychomotor stimulants, which provides a model for the intensification of drug craving and relapse alleged to underlie addiction in humans. Mechanisms related to sensitization may also contribute to schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. While the phenomenon has been observed for years, only recently have molecular or intracellular mechanisms associated with behavioral sensitization been studied. An overview of cAMP and PLA2 (intracellular, signal transduction mechanisms) relevant to behavioral sensitization will be presented.