The mGluR5 antagonist MPEP selectively inhibits the onset and maintenance of ethanol self-administration in C57BL/6J mice

TARP ɣ-8 is a target of ethanol that regulates self-administration and relapse in mice

Background

Behavioral pathologies that characterize alcohol use disorder (AUD) are driven by the powerful reinforcing, or rewarding, properties of the drug. We have shown that glutamate AMPA receptor (AMPAR) activity is both necessary and sufficient for alcohol (ethanol) reinforcement. Transmembrane AMPAR regulatory protein (TARP) γ-8 is an essential auxiliary protein that regulates AMPAR expression and activity; however, the role of TARP ɣ-8 in AUD or other forms of addiction remains largely unexplored.

Objectives

This study investigated the mechanistic role of TARP γ-8 in operant ethanol self-administration (model of primary reinforcement) and cue-induced reinstatement of ethanol-seeking behavior (model of conditioned reinforcement) using TARP ɣ-8 heterozygous null (+/-) mice. To determine if TARP ɣ-8 signaling is targeted by ethanol use, we evaluated protein expression of TARP γ-8, GluA1, CaMKII, and PSD-95 following ethanol self-administration.

Results

A battery of tests evaluating food and water intake, taste reactivity, anxiety-like behavior, and object recognition memory showed no fundamental behavioral deficits in TARP γ-8 (+/-) mice, and no differences in response to acute ethanol or home-cage drinking as compared to wild-types. However, TARP γ-8 (+/-) mice exhibited significantly reduced acquisition and escalation of operant ethanol self-administration and reduced cue-induced reinstatement of ethanol-seeking behavior, with no differences in parallel sucrose-only controls. In wild-type mice, ethanol self-administration increased TARP γ-8 expression in the amygdala, nucleus accumbens, and hippocampus, and increased GluA1 expression in the amygdala and prefrontal cortex, compared to sucrose controls.

Conclusion

These findings highlight the specificity of TARP ɣ-8 regulation of ethanol reinforcement mechanisms and identify this crucial AMPAR auxiliary protein as a target of ethanol in reward-related brain regions, highlighting its potential for development of novel pharmacotherapies for AUD.

Differential reductions in alcohol consumption and cue-induced alcohol-seeking behavior following mGlu5 receptor inhibition in the prelimbic vs. infralimbic subregions of the rat prefrontal cortex

Glutamatergic signaling is one of the primary targets of actions of alcohol in the brain, and dysregulated excitatory transmission in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) may contribute problematic drinking and relapse. A prominent component of glutamate signaling is the type 5 metabotropic glutamate (mGlu5) receptor. However, little is known about the role of this receptor type in subregions of the PFC that regulate either alcohol intake or alcohol-seeking behavior. Here we examined the effects of microinfusions of the selective mGlu5 inhibitor 3-((2-methyl-1,3-thiazol-4-yl)ethynyl)pyridine (MTEP) into either the prelimbic (PL) or infralimbic (IL) regions of the PFC on alcohol intake or cue-evoked reinstatement of alcohol-seeking behavior. Adult male Wistar rats were trained to self-administer 10 % alcohol in the presence of compound discriminative stimuli (SD) signaling alcohol availability (S+) or non-availability (S-). In one group of animals, effects of locally administered MTEP (0, 0.5 or 1 μg/μl) into either the PL or IL on active alcohol intake were examined. MTEP was without effect on alcohol self-administration when infused into the PL, but decreased alcohol intake at both doses tested when infused into the IL. In separate groups of animals, we examined effects of locally administered MTEP (0, 0.5 or 1 μg/μl) into either the PL or IL on reinstatement of alcohol seeking elicited by alcohol predictive stimuli (S+). When infused into the PL, MTEP attenuated cue-induced reinstatement only at the higher dose tested (1 μg/μl), but when infused into the IL, MTEP reduced cue-induced reinstatement at both doses tested (0.5 μg/μl and 1 μg/μl). Together, these results suggest a largely preferential role for mGlu5 signaling in the IL vs. PL in regulating both alcohol self-administration behavior and cue-elicited alcohol seeking. Neuromodulatory approaches aimed at reducing mGlu5 signaling in the IL may therefore be of potential therapeutic value in problematic alcohol use.

Distinct sex differences in ethanol consumption and operant self-administration in C57BL/6J mice with uniform regulation by glutamate AMPAR activity

Introduction

Considering sex as a biological variable (SABV) in preclinical research can enhance understanding of the neurobiology of alcohol use disorder (AUD). However, the behavioral and neural mechanisms underlying sex-specific differences remain unclear. This study aims to elucidate SABV in ethanol (EtOH) consumption by evaluating its reinforcing effects and regulation by glutamate AMPA receptor activity in male and female mice.

Methods

C57BL/6J mice (male and female) were assessed for EtOH intake under continuous and limited access conditions in the home cage. Acute sensitivity to EtOH sedation and blood clearance were evaluated as potential modifying factors. Motivation to consume EtOH was measured using operant self-administration procedures. Sex-specific differences in neural regulation of EtOH reinforcement were examined by testing the effects of a glutamate AMPA receptor antagonist on operant EtOH self-administration.

Results

Female C57BL/6J mice exhibited a time-dependent escalation in EtOH intake under both continuous and limited access conditions. They were less sensitive to EtOH sedation and had lower blood levels post-EtOH administration (4 g/kg) despite similar clearance rates. Females also showed increased operant EtOH self-administration and progressive ratio performance over a 30-day baseline period compared to males. The AMPAR antagonist GYKI 52466 (0-10 mg/kg, IP) dose-dependently reduced EtOH-reinforced lever pressing in both sexes, with no differences in potency or efficacy.

Discussion

These findings confirm that female C57BL/6J mice consume more EtOH than males in home-cage conditions and exhibit reduced acute sedation, potentially contributing to higher EtOH intake. Females demonstrated increased operant EtOH self-administration and motivation, indicating higher reinforcing efficacy. The lack of sex differences in the relative effects of GYKI 52466 suggests that AMPAR activity is equally required for EtOH reinforcement in both sexes.

Ethanol self-administration targets GluA2-containing AMPA receptor expression and synaptic activity in the nucleus accumbens in a manner that drives the positive reinforcing properties of the drug

RATIONALE

The positive reinforcing effects of alcohol (ethanol) drive repetitive use and contribute to alcohol use disorder (AUD). Ethanol alters the expression of glutamate AMPA receptor (AMPAR) subunits in reward-related brain regions, but the extent to which this effect regulates ethanol's reinforcing properties is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates whether ethanol self-administration changes AMPAR subunit expression and synaptic activity in the nucleus accumbens core (AcbC) to regulate ethanol's reinforcing effects in male C57BL/6 J mice.

RESULTS

Sucrose-sweetened ethanol self-administration (0.81 g/kg/day) increased AMPAR GluA2 protein expression in the AcbC, without effect on GluA1, compared to sucrose-only controls. Infusion of myristoylated Pep2m in the AcbC, which blocks GluA2 binding to N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive fusion protein (NSF) and reduces GluA2-containing AMPAR activity, reduced ethanol-reinforced responding without affecting sucrose-only self-administration or motor activity. Antagonizing GluA2-lacking AMPARs, through AcbC infusion of NASPM, had no effect on ethanol self-administration. AcbC neurons receiving projections from the basolateral amygdala (BLA) showed increased sEPSC area under the curve (a measurement of charge transfer) and slower decay kinetics in ethanol self-administering mice as compared to sucrose. Optogenetic activation of these neurons revealed an ethanol-enhanced AMPA/NMDA ratio and significantly reduced paired-pulse ratio, suggesting elevated GluA2 contributions specifically within the BLA➔AcbC pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

Ethanol use upregulates GluA2 protein expression in the AcbC and AMPAR synaptic activity in AcbC neurons receiving BLA projections and enhances synaptic plasticity directly within the BLA➔AcbC circuit. GluA2-containing AMPAR activity in the AcbC regulates the positive reinforcing effects of ethanol through an NSF-dependent mechanism, highlighting a potential therapeutic target in AUD.

Pharmacology, Signaling and Therapeutic Potential of Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor 5 Negative Allosteric Modulators

Metabotropic glutamate receptors are a family of eight class C G protein-coupled receptors regulating higher order brain functions including cognition and motion. Metabotropic glutamate receptors have thus been heavily investigated as potential drug targets for treating neurological disorders. Drug discovery efforts directed toward metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 5 (mGlu5) have been particularly fruitful, with a wealth of drug candidates and pharmacological tools identified. mGlu5 negative allosteric modulators (NAMs) are promising novel therapeutics for developmental, neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders (e.g., Alzheimer's Disease, Huntington's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, autism spectrum disorders, substance use disorders, stroke, anxiety and depression) and show promise in ameliorating adverse effects induced by other medications (e.g., L-dopa induced dyskinesia in Parkinson's Disease). However, despite preclinical success, mGlu5 NAMs are yet to reach the market due to poor safety and efficacy profiles in clinical trials. Herein, we review the physiology and signal transduction of mGlu5. We provide a comprehensive critique of therapeutic options with respect to mGlu5 inhibitors, spanning from orthosteric antagonists to NAMs. Finally, we address the challenges associated with drug development and highlight future directions to guide rational drug discovery of safe and effective novel therapeutics.

Sex Differences in Home-Cage Ethanol Drinking and Operant Self-Administration in C57BL/6J Mice with Equivalent Regulation by Glutamate AMPAR Activity

Introduction

Considering sex as a biological variable (SABV) in preclinical research can enhance understanding of the neurobiology of alcohol use disorder (AUD). However, the behavioral and neural mechanisms underlying sex-specific differences remain unclear. This study aims to elucidate SABV in ethanol (EtOH) consumption by evaluating its reinforcing effects and regulation by glutamate AMPA receptor activity in male and female mice.

Methods

C57BL/6J mice (male and female) were assessed for EtOH intake under continuous and limited access conditions in the home cage. Acute sensitivity to EtOH sedation and blood clearance were evaluated as potential modifying factors. Motivation to consume EtOH was measured using operant self-administration procedures. Sex-specific differences in neural regulation of EtOH reinforcement were examined by testing the effects of a glutamate AMPA receptor antagonist on operant EtOH self-administration.

Results

Female C57BL/6J mice exhibited a time-dependent escalation in EtOH intake under both continuous and limited access conditions. They were less sensitive to EtOH sedation and had lower blood levels post-EtOH administration (4 g/kg) despite similar clearance rates. Females also showed increased operant EtOH self-administration and progressive ratio performance over a 30-day baseline period compared to males. The AMPAR antagonist GYKI 52466 (0-10 mg/kg, IP) dose-dependently reduced EtOH-reinforced lever pressing in both sexes, with no differences in potency or efficacy.

Discussion

These findings confirm that female C57BL/6J mice consume more EtOH than males in home-cage conditions and exhibit reduced acute sedation, potentially contributing to higher EtOH intake. Females demonstrated increased operant EtOH self-administration and motivation, indicating higher reinforcing efficacy. The lack of sex differences in the relative effects of GYKI 52466 suggests that AMPAR activity is equally required for EtOH reinforcement in both sexes.

Operant alcohol self-administration targets GluA2-containing AMPA receptor expression and synaptic activity in the nucleus accumbens in a manner that drives the positive reinforcing properties of the drug

Rationale : The positive reinforcing effects of alcohol (ethanol) drive its repetitive use and contribute to alcohol use disorder (AUD). Ethanol alters the expression of glutamate AMPA receptor (AMPAR) subunits in reward-related brain regions, but the extent to which this effect regulates ethanol's reinforcing properties is unclear. Objective: This study investigates whether ethanol self-administration changes AMPAR subunit expression and synaptic activity in the nucleus accumbens core (AcbC) to regulate ethanol's reinforcing effects in male C57BL/6J mice. Results: Sucrose-sweetened ethanol self-administration (0.81 g/kg/day) increased AMPAR GluA2 protein expression in the AcbC, without effect on GluA1, compared to sucrose-only controls. Infusion of myristoylated Pep2m in the AcbC, which blocks GluA2 binding to N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive fusion protein (NSF) and reduces GluA2-containing AMPAR activity, reduced ethanol-reinforced responding without affecting sucrose-only self-administration or motor activity. Antagonizing GluA2-lacking AMPARs, through AcbC infusion of NASPM, had no effect on ethanol self-administration. AcbC neurons receiving projections from the basolateral amygdala (BLA) showed increased sEPSC area under the curve (a measurement of charge transfer) and slower decay kinetics in ethanol self-administering mice as compared to sucrose. Optogenetic activation of these neurons revealed an ethanol-enhanced AMPA/NMDA ratio and significantly reduced paired-pulse ratio, suggesting elevated GluA2 contributions specifically within the BLA→AcbC pathway. Conclusions: Ethanol use upregulates GluA2 protein expression in the AcbC and AMPAR synaptic activity in AcbC neurons receiving BLA projections and enhances synaptic plasticity directly within the BLA→AcbC circuit. GluA2-containing AMPAR activity in the AcbC regulates the positive reinforcing effects of ethanol through an NSF-dependent mechanism, highlighting a potential therapeutic target in AUD.

mGlu2 and mGlu3 receptor negative allosteric modulators attenuate the interoceptive effects of alcohol in male and female rats

RATIONALE

The subjective effects of alcohol are associated with alcohol use disorder (AUD) vulnerability and treatment outcomes. The interoceptive effects of alcohol are part of these subjective effects and can be measured in animal models using drug discrimination procedures. The newly developed mGlu2 and mGlu3 negative allosteric modulators (NAMs) are potential therapeutics for AUD and may alter interoceptive sensitivity to alcohol.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effects of mGlu2 and mGlu3 NAMs on the interoceptive effects of alcohol in rats.

METHODS

Long-Evans rats were trained to discriminate the interoceptive stimulus effects of alcohol (2.0 g/kg, i.g.) from water using both operant (males only) and Pavlovian (male and female) drug discrimination techniques. Following acquisition training, an alcohol dose-response (0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 g/kg) experiment was conducted to confirm stimulus control over behavior. Next, to test the involvement of mGlu2 and mGlu3, rats were pretreated with the mGlu2-NAM (VU6001966; 0, 3, 6, 12 mg/kg, i.p.) or the mGlu3-NAM (VU6010572; 0, 3, 6, 12 mg/kg, i.p.) before alcohol administration (2.0 g/kg, i.g.).

RESULTS

In Pavlovian discrimination, male rats showed greater interoceptive sensitivity to 1.0 and 2.0 g/kg alcohol compared to female rats. Both mGlu2-NAM and mGlu3-NAM attenuated the interoceptive effects of alcohol in male and female rats using Pavlovian and operant discrimination. There may be a potential sex difference in response to the mGlu2-NAM at the highest dose tested.

CONCLUSIONS

Male rats may be more sensitive to the interoceptive effects of the 2.0 g/kg alcohol training dose compared to female rats. Both mGlu2-and mGlu3-NAM attenuate the interoceptive effects of alcohol in male and female rats. These drugs may have potential for treatment of AUD in part by blunting the subjective effects of alcohol.

Cue-induced reinstatement of seeking behavior in male rats is independent from the rewarding value of the primary reinforcer: Effect of mGluR5 blockade

Environmental conditioning factors have a profound impact on alcohol-seeking behavior and the maintenance of alcohol use in individuals with alcohol dependence. Cues associated with alcohol, depending on the perceived value of the primary reinforcer, gain salience and can trigger relapse. This study investigates the correlation between the reward magnitude of the primary reinforcer and the reinstatement evoked by cues predictive of their availability in male rats. Rat self-administration procedures were used to test reinstatement, with reinforcers consisting of 10% alcohol, 10% sucrose, or 2% sodium chloride (NaCl) experienced under need-state conditions. The effect of MTEP ([(2-methyl-1,3-thiazol-4-yl) ethynyl] pyridine), a selective metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) antagonist, on motivation and reinstatement behaviors was also evaluated. RESULTS: demonstrate that under Fixed Ratio 1 (FR1) schedule, the three reinforcers maintain operant responding with the following order of magnitude 10% sucrose >2% NaCl >10% alcohol > water. Under a progressive ratio (PR) schedule of reinforcement, rats exhibit a significantly higher breakpoint for 2% NaCl (under Na-depletion), followed by 10% sucrose and 10% alcohol. After extinction, a significant reinstatement is observed with the magnitude order of 10% sucrose >10% alcohol >2% NaCl. However, only re-exposure to alcohol-paired cues induced significant reinstatement of alcohol-seeking after 4 and 8 months. Treatment with MTEP significantly reduces reinstatement of responding across all reinforcers, with the strongest effect observed on alcohol-seeking. These findings suggest that mGluR5 plays a general role in controlling cue-reactivity, but the effect is prominent in the case of alcohol compared to natural rewards. In conclusion, the results demonstrate a remarkable dissociation between the rewarding magnitude of the primary reinforcer and its ability to trigger relapse upon presentation of a cue previously associated with it. Importantly, alcohol, despite having lower intrinsic motivational value compared to a natural reward (sucrose) or a consummatory stimulus experienced under need state conditions (NaCl), can elicit more robust and longer-term reinstatement of seeking responses. Finally, our data demonstrate a significant involvement of the mGluR5 system in the regulation of seeking behavior.

Beyond monoamines: II. Novel applications for PET imaging in psychiatric disorders

Early applications of positron emission tomography (PET) in psychiatry sought to identify derangements of cerebral blood flow and metabolism. The need for more specific neurochemical imaging probes was soon evident, and these probes initially targeted the sites of action of neuroleptic (dopamine D₂ receptors) and psychoactive (serotonin receptors) drugs. For nearly 30 years, the centrality of monoamine dysfunction in psychiatric disorders drove the development of an armamentarium of monoaminergic PET radiopharmaceuticals and imaging methodologies. However, continued investments in monoamine-enhancing drug development realized only modest gains in efficacy and tolerability. As patent protection for many widely prescribed and profitable psychiatric drugs lapsed, drug development pipelines shifted away from monoamines in search of novel targets with the promises of improved efficacy, or abandoned altogether. Over this period, PET radiopharmaceutical development activities closely parallelled drug development priorities, resulting in the development of new PET imaging agents for non-monoamine targets. In part two of this review, we survey clinical research studies using the novel targets and radiotracers described in part one across major psychiatric application areas such as substance use disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, mood disorders, and schizophrenia. Important limitations of the studies described are discussed, as well as key methodologic issues, challenges to the field, and the status of clinical trials seeking to exploit these targets for novel therapeutics.

Effects of a Novel Beta Lactam Compound, MC-100093, on the Expression of Glutamate Transporters/Receptors and Ethanol Drinking Behavior of Alcohol-Preferring Rats

Chronic ethanol exposure affects the glutamatergic system in several brain reward regions including the nucleus accumbens (NAc). Our laboratory has shown that chronic exposure to ethanol reduced the expression of glutamate transporter 1 (GLT-1) and cystine/glutamate exchanger (xCT) and, as a result, increased extracellular glutamate concentrations in the NAc of alcohol-preferring (P) rats. Moreover, previous studies from our laboratory reported that chronic ethanol intake altered the expression of certain metabotropic glutamate receptors in the brain. In addition to central effects, chronic ethanol consumption induced liver injury, which is associated with steatohepatitis. In the present study, we investigated the effects of chronic ethanol consumption in the brain and liver. Male P rats had access to a free choice of ethanol and water bottles for five weeks. Chronic ethanol consumption reduced GLT-1 and xCT expression in the NAc shell but not in the NAc core. Furthermore, chronic ethanol consumption increased fat droplet content as well as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR-α) and GLT-1 expression in the liver. Importantly, treatment with the novel beta-lactam compound, MC-100093, reduced ethanol drinking behavior and normalized the levels of GLT-1 and xCT expression in the NAc shell as well as normalized GLT-1 and PPAR-α expression in the liver. In addition, MC-100093 attenuated ethanol-induced increases in fat droplet content in the liver. These findings suggest that MC-100093 may be a potential lead compound to attenuate ethanol-induced dysfunction in the glutamatergic system and liver injury. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This study identified a novel beta-lactam, MC-100093, that has demonstrated upregulatory effects on GLT-1. MC-100093 reduced ethanol drinking behavior and normalized levels of GLT-1 and xCT expression in the NAc shell as well as normalized GLT-1 and PPAR-α expression in the liver. In addition, MC-100093 attenuated ethanol-induced increases in fat droplet content in the liver.

Sex differences and hormonal regulation of metabotropic glutamate receptor synaptic plasticity

Striking sex differences exist in presentation and incidence of several psychiatric disorders. For example, major depressive disorder is more prevalent in women than men, and women who develop alcohol use disorder progress through drinking milestones more rapidly than men. With regards to psychiatric treatment responses, women respond more favorably to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors than men, whereas men have better outcomes when prescribed tricyclic antidepressants. Despite such well-documented biases in incidence, presentation, and treatment response, sex as a biological variable has long been neglected in preclinical and clinical research. An emerging family of druggable targets for psychiatric diseases, metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptors are G-protein coupled receptors broadly distributed throughout the central nervous system. mGlu receptors confer diverse neuromodulatory actions of glutamate at the levels of synaptic plasticity, neuronal excitability, and gene transcription. In this chapter, we summarize the current preclinical and clinical evidence for sex differences in mGlu receptor function. We first highlight basal sex differences in mGlu receptor expression and function and proceed to describe how gonadal hormones, notably estradiol, regulate mGlu receptor signaling. We then describe sex-specific mechanisms by which mGlu receptors differentially modulate synaptic plasticity and behavior in basal states and models relevant for disease. Finally, we discuss human research findings and highlight areas in need of further research. Taken together, this review emphasizes how mGlu receptor function and expression can differ across sex. Gaining a more complete understanding of how sex differences in mGlu receptor function contribute to psychiatric diseases will be critical in the development of novel therapeutics that are effective in all individuals.

Allosteric Modulators of Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors as Novel Therapeutics for Neuropsychiatric Disease

Metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptors, a family of G-protein-coupled receptors, have been identified as novel therapeutic targets based on extensive research supporting their diverse contributions to cell signaling and physiology throughout the nervous system and important roles in regulating complex behaviors, such as cognition, reward, and movement. Thus, targeting mGlu receptors may be a promising strategy for the treatment of several brain disorders. Ongoing advances in the discovery of subtype-selective allosteric modulators for mGlu receptors has provided an unprecedented opportunity for highly specific modulation of signaling by individual mGlu receptor subtypes in the brain by targeting sites distinct from orthosteric or endogenous ligand binding sites on mGlu receptors. These pharmacological agents provide the unparalleled opportunity to selectively regulate neuronal excitability, synaptic transmission, and subsequent behavioral output pertinent to many brain disorders. Here, we review preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the utility of mGlu receptor allosteric modulators as novel therapeutic approaches to treat neuropsychiatric diseases, such as schizophrenia, substance use disorders, and stress-related disorders. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Allosteric modulation of metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptors represents a promising therapeutic strategy to normalize dysregulated cellular physiology associated with neuropsychiatric disease. This review summarizes preclinical and clinical studies using mGlu receptor allosteric modulators as experimental tools and potential therapeutic approaches for the treatment of neuropsychiatric diseases, including schizophrenia, stress, and substance use disorders.

Multimodal neuroimaging of metabotropic glutamate 5 receptors and functional connectivity in alcohol use disorder

BACKGROUND

People recovering from alcohol use disorder (AUD) show altered resting brain connectivity. The metabotropic glutamate 5 (mGlu5) receptor is an important regulator of synaptic plasticity potentially linked with synchronized brain activity and a target of interest in treating AUD. The goal of this work was to assess potential relationships of brain connectivity at rest with mGlu5 receptor availability in people with AUD at two time points early in abstinence.

METHODS

Forty-eight image data sets were acquired with a multimodal neuroimaging battery that included resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and mGlu5 receptor positron emission tomography (PET) with the radiotracer [¹⁸ F]FPEB. Participants with AUD (n = 14) were scanned twice, at approximately 1 and 4 weeks after beginning supervised abstinence. [¹⁸ F]FPEB PET results were published previously. Primary comparisons of fMRI outcomes were performed between the AUD group and healthy controls (HCs; n = 23) and assessed changes over time within the AUD group. Relationships between resting-state connectivity measures and mGlu5 receptor availability were explored within groups.

RESULTS

Compared to HCs, global functional connectivity of the orbitofrontal cortex was higher in the AUD group at 4 weeks of abstinence (p = 0.003), while network-level functional connectivity within the default mode network (DMN) was lower (p < 0.04). Exploratory multimodal analyses showed that mGlu5 receptor availability was correlated with global connectivity across all brain regions (HCs, r = 0.41; AUD group at 1 week of abstinence, r = 0.50 and at 4 weeks, r = 0.46; all p < 0.0001). Furthermore, a component of cortical and striatal mGlu5 availability was correlated with connectivity between the DMN and salience networks in HCs (r = 0.60, p = 0.003) but not in the AUD group (p > 0.3).

CONCLUSIONS

These preliminary findings of altered global and network connectivity during the first month of abstinence from drinking may reflect the loss of efficient network function, while exploratory relationships with mGlu5 receptor availability suggest a potential glutamatergic relationship with network coherence.

Regulation of glutamate signaling in the extended amygdala by adolescent alcohol exposure

Adolescence is a critical period for brain development and behavioral maturation, marked by increased risk-taking behavior and the initiation of drug use. There are significant changes in gray matter volume and pruning of synapses along with a shift in excitatory to inhibitory balance which marks the maturation of cognition and decision-making. Because of ongoing brain development, adolescents are particularly sensitive to the detrimental effects of drugs, including alcohol, which can cause long-lasting consequences into adulthood. The extended amygdala is a region critically implicated in withdrawal and negative affect such as anxiety and depression. As negative affective disorders develop during adolescence, the effects of adolescent alcohol exposure on extended amygdala circuitry needs further inquiry. Here we aim to provide a framework to discuss the existing literature on the extended amygdala, the neuroadaptations which result from alcohol use, and the intersection of factors which contribute to the long-lasting effects of this exposure.

Calcium-permeable AMPA receptor activity and GluA1 trafficking in the basolateral amygdala regulate operant alcohol self-administration

Addiction is viewed as maladaptive glutamate-mediated neuroplasticity that is regulated, in part, by calcium-permeable AMPA receptor (CP-AMPAR) activity. However, the contribution of CP-AMPARs to alcohol-seeking behavior remains to be elucidated. We evaluated CP-AMPAR activity in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) as a potential target of alcohol that also regulates alcohol self-administration in C57BL/6J mice. Operant self-administration of sweetened alcohol increased spontaneous EPSC frequency in BLA neurons that project to the nucleus accumbens as compared with behavior-matched sucrose controls indicating an alcohol-specific upregulation of synaptic activity. Bath application of the CP-AMPAR antagonist NASPM decreased evoked EPSC amplitude only in alcohol self-administering mice indicating alcohol-induced synaptic insertion of CP-AMPARs in BLA projection neurons. Moreover, NASPM infusion in the BLA dose-dependently decreased the rate of operant alcohol self-administration providing direct evidence for CP-AMPAR regulation of alcohol reinforcement. As most CP-AMPARs are GluA1-containing, we asked if alcohol alters the activation state of GluA1-containing AMPARs. Immunocytochemistry results showed elevated GluA1-S831 phosphorylation in the BLA of alcohol as compared with sucrose mice. To investigate mechanistic regulation of alcohol self-administration by GluA1-containing AMPARs, we evaluated the necessity of GluA1 trafficking using a TET-ON AAV encoding a dominant-negative GluA1 c-terminus (GluA1ct) that blocks activity-dependent synaptic delivery of native GluA1-containing AMPARs. GluA1ct expression in the BLA reduced alcohol self-administration with no effect on sucrose controls. These results show that CP-AMPAR activity and GluA1 trafficking in the BLA mechanistically regulate the reinforcing effects of sweetened alcohol. Pharmacotherapeutic targeting these mechanisms of maladaptive neuroplasticity may aid medical management of alcohol use disorder.

CHPG enhances BDNF and myelination in cuprizone-treated mice through astrocytic metabotropic glutamate receptor 5

It is well recognized that astrocytes can produce factors known to affect the myelination process. One such factor, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), can enhance the differentiation of oligodendrocyte lineage cells following a demyelinating lesion. Our previous work indicated that enhancing astrocyte-derived BDNF via injection of a general agonist of Group I/II metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) into the lesion increased myelin proteins in the cuprizone model of demyelination after 4 hr. To determine if this observation has potential therapeutic significance, we now use a more specific mGluR agonist, 2-chloro-5-hydroxyphenylglycine (CHPG), which binds to mGluR5, to examine effects on myelination through the clinically relevant approach of a peripheral injection. In initial studies, intraperitoneal injection of CHPG resulted in an increase in myelin proteins within the lesioned corpus callosum. These effects were blocked when either BDNF or the CHPG receptor, mGluR5, was deleted from glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)+ astrocytes or when the BDNF receptor, tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB), was deleted from proteolipid protein (PLP)+ oligodendrocytes. Moreover, injection of CHPG over 2 weeks not only elevated BDNF and myelin proteins, but also enhanced myelination and reversed behavioral deficits. Interestingly, effects on myelin and myelin proteins were not seen in the control animals, indicating that a lesion is critical in eliciting effects. Taken together, the data suggest that the mGluR agonist CHPG may be a potential therapeutic strategy for treating demyelinating diseases and that it works by enhancing the release of BDNF from astrocytes.

Negative allosteric modulation of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 attenuates alcohol self-administration in baboons

Many of the behavioral symptoms that define alcohol use disorder (AUD) are thought to be mediated by amplified glutamatergic activity. As a result, previous preclinical studies have investigated glutamate receptor inhibition as a potential pharmacotherapy for AUD, particularly the metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGlu5). In rodents, mGlu5 negative allosteric modulators (NAMs) have been shown to decrease alcohol self-administration. However, their effect on non-human primates has not previously been explored. To bridge this gap, the effects of mGlu5 NAM pretreatment on sweetened alcohol (8% w/v in diluted KoolAid) self-administration in female baboons were evaluated. Two different mGlu5 NAMs were tested: 1) 3-2((-Methyl-4-thiazolyl) ethynyl) pyridine (MTEP) which was administered at a dose of 2 mg/kg IM; and 2) auglurant (N-(5-fluoropyridin-2-yl)-6-methyl-4-(pyrimidin-5-yloxy)picolinamide), a newly developed NAM, which was tested under two different routes (0.001, 0.01, 0.03, 0.1 mg/kg IM and 0.1, 0.3, 1.0 mg/kg PO). MTEP decreased both fixed ratio and progressive ratio responding for sweetened alcohol. Auglurant, administered IM, decreased alcohol self-administration at doses that did not affect self-administration of an alcohol-free sweet liquid reward (0.01 to 0.1 mg/kg). Oral administration of auglurant was not effective in decreasing alcohol self-administration. Our results extend positive findings from rodent studies on mGlu5 regulation of alcohol drinking to female baboons and further strengthen the rationale for targeting mGlu5 in clinical trials for AUD.

Inhibition of AMPA receptors (AMPARs) containing transmembrane AMPAR regulatory protein γ-8 with JNJ-55511118 shows preclinical efficacy in reducing chronic repetitive alcohol self-administration

BACKGROUND

A prominent therapeutic indication for alcohol use disorder (AUD) is reduction in chronic repetitive alcohol use. Glutamate α-Amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid (AMPA) receptors (AMPARs) regulate chronic alcohol self-administration in preclinical models. Recent evidence indicates that the expression and function of AMPARs require the transmembrane AMPAR regulatory protein γ-8 (TARP γ-8). This study evaluated the preclinical efficacy of JNJ-55511118, a novel, selective, high-affinity inhibitor of TARP γ-8-bound AMPARs, in reducing chronic operant alcohol self-administration.

METHODS

Separate groups of male and female C57BL/6J mice (n = 8/sex/group) were trained to lever press for sweetened alcohol (9% v/v + sucrose 2% w/v) or sucrose only (2% w/v) in operant conditioning chambers using an FR-4 schedule of reinforcement. After a 40-day baseline, JNJ-55511118 (0, 1, and 10 mg/kg, p.o.) was administered in randomized order 1 h before self-administration sessions. Parameters of operant behavior including response rate, total reinforcers, and head entries in the drinking troughs were computer recorded.

RESULTS

During baseline, responding to alcohol, but not sucrose, was greater in female than male mice. In male mice, both doses of JNJ-55511118 decreased multiple parameters of alcohol self-administration but did not reduce behavior-matched sucrose-only self-administration. JNJ-55511118 had no effect on sweetened alcohol or sucrose self-administration in female mice. Subsequent tests of motor function showed that the lowest effective dose of JNJ-55511118 (1 mg/kg) had no effect on open-field activity in male mice.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows for the first time that TARP γ-8-bound AMPARs regulate a behavioral pathology associated with addiction. The preclinical efficacy of JNJ-55511118 in reducing alcohol self-administration in male mice suggests that inhibition of TARP γ-8-bound AMPARs is a novel and highly significant neural target for developing medications to treat AUD and other forms of addiction.

MPEP Lowers Binge Drinking in Male and Female C57BL/6 Mice: Relationship with mGlu5/Homer2/Erk2 Signaling

BACKGROUND

Metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGlu5) plays an important role in excessive alcohol use and the mGlu5/Homer2/Erk2 signaling pathway has been implicated in binge drinking. The mGlu5 negative allosteric modulator (NAM) 2-methyl-6-(phenylethynyl)pyridine hydrochloride (MPEP) has been shown to reduce binge drinking in male mice, but less is known about its effect on female mice. Here, we sought to determine whether sex differences exists in the effects of MPEP on binge drinking and whether they relate to changes in the MPEP mGlu5/Homer2/Erk2 signaling.

METHODS

We measured the dose-response effect of MPEP on alcohol consumption in male and female mice using the Drinking in the Dark (DID) paradigm to assess potential sex differences. To rule out possible confounds of MPEP on locomotion, we measured the effects of MPEP on locomotor activity and drinking simultaneously during DID. Lastly, to test whether MPEP-induced changes in alcohol consumption were related to changes in Homer2 or Erk2 expression, we performed qPCR using brain tissue acquired from mice that had undergone 7 days of DID.

RESULTS

30 mg/kg MPEP reduced binge alcohol consumption across female and male mice, with no sex differences in the dose-response relationship. Locomotor activity did not mediate the effects of MPEP on alcohol intake, but activity correlated with alcohol intake independent of MPEP. MPEP did not change the expression of Homer2 and Erk2 mRNA in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) or nucleus accumbens in mice whose drinking was reduced by MPEP, relative to saline. There was a positive relationship between alcohol intake and Homer2 expression in the BNST.

CONCLUSIONS

MPEP reduced alcohol consumption during DID in male and female C57BL/6 mice but did not change Homer2/Erk2 expression. Locomotor activity did not mediate the effects of MPEP on alcohol intake, though it correlated with alcohol intake. Alcohol intake during DID predicted BNST Homer2 expression. These data provide support for the regulation of alcohol consumption by mGlu5 across sexes.

International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology. CXI. Pharmacology, Signaling, and Physiology of Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors

Metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptors respond to glutamate, the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the mammalian brain, mediating a modulatory role that is critical for higher-order brain functions such as learning and memory. Since the first mGlu receptor was cloned in 1992, eight subtypes have been identified along with many isoforms and splice variants. The mGlu receptors are transmembrane-spanning proteins belonging to the class C G protein-coupled receptor family and represent attractive targets for a multitude of central nervous system disorders. Concerted drug discovery efforts over the past three decades have yielded a wealth of pharmacological tools including subtype-selective agents that competitively block or mimic the actions of glutamate or act allosterically via distinct sites to enhance or inhibit receptor activity. Herein, we review the physiologic and pathophysiological roles for individual mGlu receptor subtypes including the pleiotropic nature of intracellular signal transduction arising from each. We provide a comprehensive analysis of the in vitro and in vivo pharmacological properties of prototypical and commercially available orthosteric agonists and antagonists as well as allosteric modulators, including ligands that have entered clinical trials. Finally, we highlight emerging areas of research that hold promise to facilitate rational design of highly selective mGlu receptor-targeting therapeutics in the future. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The metabotropic glutamate receptors are attractive therapeutic targets for a range of psychiatric and neurological disorders. Over the past three decades, intense discovery efforts have yielded diverse pharmacological tools acting either competitively or allosterically, which have enabled dissection of fundamental biological process modulated by metabotropic glutamate receptors and established proof of concept for many therapeutic indications. We review metabotropic glutamate receptor molecular pharmacology and highlight emerging areas that are offering new avenues to selectively modulate neurotransmission.

Pharmacological inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase 3 increases operant alcohol self-administration in a manner associated with altered pGSK-3β, protein interacting with C kinase and GluA2 protein expression in the reward pathway of male C57BL/6J mice

Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3) is a constitutively active serine-threonine kinase that regulates numerous signaling pathways and has been implicated in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases. Alcohol exposure increases GSK-3β (ser9) phosphorylation (pGSK-3β); however, few studies have investigated whether GSK-3 regulates the positive reinforcing effects of alcohol, which drive repetitive drug use. To address this goal, male C57BL/6J mice were trained to lever press on a fixed-ratio 4 schedule of sweetened alcohol or sucrose-only reinforcement in operant conditioning chambers. The GSK-3 inhibitor CHIR 99021 (0-10 mg/kg, i.p.) was injected 45 minutes prior to self-administration sessions. After completion of the self-administration dose-effect curve, potential locomotor effects of the GSK-3 inhibitor were assessed. To determine molecular efficacy, CHIR 99021 (10 mg/kg, i.p.) was evaluated on pGSK-3β, GSK-3β, protein interacting with C kinase (PICK1), and α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptor GluA2 subunit protein expression in amygdala, nucleus accumbens (NAcb), and frontal cortex. Results showed that CHIR 99021 (10 mg/kg) dose-dependently increased alcohol reinforced responding with no effect on sucrose self-administration or locomotor activity. CHIR 99021 (10 mg/kg) significantly decreased pGSK-3β expression in all brain regions tested, reduced PICK1 and increased GluA2 total expression only in the NAcb. We conclude that GSK-3 inhibition increased the reinforcing effects of alcohol in mice. This was associated with reduced pGSK-3β and PICK1, and increased GluA2 expression. Given prior results showing that AMPA receptor activity regulates alcohol self-administration, we propose that signaling through the GSK-3/PICK1/GluA2 molecular pathway drives the positive reinforcing effects of the drug, which are required for abuse liability.

Allosteric modulation of metabotropic glutamate receptors in alcohol use disorder: Insights from preclinical investigations

Metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptors are family C G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that modulate neuronal excitability and synaptic transmission throughout the nervous system. Owing to recent advances in development of subtype-selective allosteric modulators of mGlu receptors, individual members of the mGlu receptor family have been proposed as targets for treating a variety of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including substance use disorders. In this chapter, we highlight preclinical evidence that allosteric modulators of mGlu receptors could be useful for reducing alcohol consumption and preventing relapse in alcohol use disorder (AUD). We begin with an overview of the preclinical models that are used to study mGlu receptor involvement in alcohol-related behaviors. Alcohol exposure causes adaptations in both expression and function of various mGlu receptor subtypes, and pharmacotherapies aimed at reversing these adaptations have the potential to reduce alcohol consumption and seeking. Positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) of mGlu₂ and negative allosteric modulators of mGlu₅ show particular promise for reducing alcohol intake and/or preventing relapse. Finally, this chapter discusses important considerations for translating preclinical findings toward the development of clinically useful drugs, including the potential for PAMs to avoid tolerance issues that are frequently observed with repeated administration of GPCR agonists.

Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor Subtype 5 in Alcohol-Induced Negative Affect

Allosteric modulators of metabotropic glutamate 5 receptors (mGlu5 receptors) have been identified as a promising treatment to independently alleviate both negative affective states and ethanol-seeking and intake. However, these conditions are often comorbid and might precipitate one another. Acute and protracted ethanol withdrawal can lead to negative affective states. In turn, these states are primary drivers of alcohol relapse, particularly among women. The current review synthesizes preclinical studies that have observed the role of mGlu5 receptor modulation in negative affective states following ethanol exposure. The primary behavioral assays discussed are ethanol-seeking and intake, development and extinction of ethanol-associated cues and contexts, behavioral despair, and anxiety-like activity. The work done to-date supports mGlu5 receptor modulation as a promising target for mediating negative affective states to reduce ethanol intake or prevent relapse. Limitations in interpreting these data include the lack of models that use alcohol-dependent animals, limited use of adolescent and female subjects, and a lack of comprehensive evaluations of negative affective-like behavior.

MGluR5 activity is required for the induction of ethanol behavioral sensitization and associated changes in ERK MAP kinase phosphorylation in the nucleus accumbens shell and lateral habenula

Metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype-5 (mGluR5) activity regulates a variety of behavioral pathologies associated with alcohol addiction. The main goal of this study was to determine if mGluR5 regulates the induction of ethanol-induced locomotor sensitization, which is a model of experience-dependent plasticity following initial exposure to drugs of abuse. The extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK_1/2) pathway is downstream of mGluR5 and implicated in alcohol addiction; however, its role in sensitization remains unexplored. We sought to determine if mGluR5-mediated changes in ethanol-induced sensitization are associated with changes in ERK_1/2 phosphorylation (pERK_1/2) in specific brain regions. Adult male DBA/2 J mice were tested for acute locomotor response to ethanol (0 or 2 g/kg, IP) followed by a 9-day induction period in which the mGluR5 antagonist MPEP (0 or 30 mg/kg, IP) was administered prior to ethanol (0 or 2.5 g/kg, IP). One day later, ethanol (2 g/kg) produced a robust within- and between-group increase in locomotor activity, indicating sensitization in mice that received MPEP (0 mg/kg) during induction. MPEP (30 mg/kg) treatment during induction resulted in locomotor response to ethanol (2 g/kg) challenge that was equivalent to an acute response, indicating full blockade of sensitization. Sensitization was associated with increased pERK_1/2 immunoreactivity (IR) in nucleus accumbens shell (AcbSh) and a reduction in lateral habenula (LHb), both of which were blocked by MPEP treatment during induction. Sensitization was also associated with mGluR5-independent increases in pERK_1/2 IR in the nucleus accumbens core and decreases in the dentate gyrus and lateral septum. These data indicate that mGluR5 activity is required for the induction of ethanol locomotor sensitization and associated changes in ERK_1/2 phosphorylation in the AcbSh and LHb, which raises the hypothesis that mGluR5-mediated cell signaling in these brain regions may mediate the induction of sensitization. Elucidating mechanisms of sensitization may increase understanding of how ethanol hijacks behavioral functions during the development of addiction.

Glutamate Receptor-Mediated Neurotoxicity in a Model of Ethanol Dependence and Withdrawal in Rat Organotypic Hippocampal Slice Cultures

Long-term alcohol use can lead to alterations in brain structure and functions and, in some cases, to neurodegeneration. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain ethanol (EtOH)-related brain injury. One of the most relevant mechanisms of alcohol-induced neurodegeneration involves glutamatergic transmission, but their exact role is not yet fully understood. We investigated the neurochemical mechanisms underlying the toxicity induced by EtOH dependence and/or withdrawal by exposing rat organotypic hippocampal slices to EtOH (100–300 mM) for 7 days and then incubating the slices in EtOH-free medium for the subsequent 24 h. EtOH withdrawal led to a dose-dependent CA1 pyramidal cell injury, as detected with propidium iodide fluorescence. Electron microscopy of hippocampal slices revealed that not only EtOH withdrawal but also 7 days chronic EtOH exposure elicited signs of apoptotic cell death in CA1 pyramidal cells. These data were supported by electrophysiological recordings of spontaneus Excitatory Post Synaptic Currents (sEPSCs) from CA1 pyramidal cells. The average amplitude of sEPSCs in slices treated with EtOH for 7 days was significantly increased, and even more so during the first 30 min of EtOH withdrawal, suggesting that the initial phase of the neurodegenerative process could be due to an excitotoxic mechanism. We then analyzed the expression levels of presynaptic (vGlut1, vGlut2, CB1 receptor, synaptophysin) and postsynaptic (PSD95, GluN1, GluN2A, GluN2B, GluA1, GluA2, mGluR1 and mGluR5) proteins after 7 days EtOH incubation or after EtOH withdrawal. We found that only GluA1 and mGluR5 expression levels were significantly increased after EtOH withdrawal and, in neuroprotection experiments, we observed that AMPA and mGluR5 antagonists attenuated EtOH withdrawal-induced toxicity. These data suggest that chronic EtOH treatment promotes abnormal synaptic transmission that may lead to CA1 pyramidal cell death after EtOH withdrawal through glutamate receptors and increased excitotoxicity.

Role of glutamatergic system and mesocorticolimbic circuits in alcohol dependence

Emerging evidence demonstrates that alcohol dependence is associated with dysregulation of several neurotransmitters. Alterations in dopamine, glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid release are linked to chronic alcohol exposure. The effects of alcohol on the glutamatergic system in the mesocorticolimbic areas have been investigated extensively. Several studies have demonstrated dysregulation in the glutamatergic systems in animal models exposed to alcohol. Alcohol exposure can lead to an increase in extracellular glutamate concentrations in mesocorticolimbic brain regions. In addition, alcohol exposure affects the expression and functions of several glutamate receptors and glutamate transporters in these brain regions. In this review, we discussed the effects of alcohol exposure on glutamate receptors, glutamate transporters and glutamate homeostasis in each area of the mesocorticolimbic system. In addition, we discussed the genetic aspect of alcohol associated with glutamate and reward circuitry. We also discussed the potential therapeutic role of glutamate receptors and glutamate transporters in each brain region for the treatment of alcohol dependence. Finally, we provided some limitations on targeting the glutamatergic system for potential therapeutic options for the treatment alcohol use disorders.

Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors in Alcohol Use Disorder: Physiology, Plasticity, and Promising Pharmacotherapies

Developing efficacious treatments for alcohol use disorder (AUD) has proven difficult. The insidious nature of the disease necessitates a deep understanding of its underlying biology as well as innovative approaches to ameliorate ethanol-related pathophysiology. Excessive ethanol seeking and relapse are generated by long-term changes to membrane properties, synaptic physiology, and plasticity throughout the limbic system and associated brain structures. Each of these factors can be modulated by metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptors, a diverse set of G protein-coupled receptors highly expressed throughout the central nervous system. Here, we discuss how different components of the mGlu receptor family modulate neurotransmission in the limbic system and other brain regions involved in AUD etiology. We then describe how these processes are dysregulated following ethanol exposure and speculate about how mGlu receptor modulation might restore such pathophysiological changes. To that end, we detail the current understanding of the behavioral pharmacology of mGlu receptor-directed drug-like molecules in animal models of AUD. Together, this review highlights the prominent position of the mGlu receptor system in the pathophysiology of AUD and provides encouragement that several classes of mGlu receptor modulators may be translated as viable treatment options.

Effect of Novel Allosteric Modulators of Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors on Drug Self-administration and Relapse: A Review of Preclinical Studies and Their Clinical Implications

Results from preclinical rodent studies during the last 20 years implicated glutamate neurotransmission in different brain regions in drug self-administration and rodent models of relapse. These results, along with evidence for drug-induced neuroadaptations in glutamatergic neurons and receptors, suggested that addiction might be treatable by medications that inhibit glutamatergic responses to drugs of abuse, drug-associated cues, and stressors. This idea is supported by findings in rodent and primate models that drug self-administration and relapse are reduced by systemic injections of antagonists of ionotropic glutamate receptors or metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) or orthosteric agonists of mGluR2/3. However, these compounds have not advanced to clinical use because of potential side effects and other factors. This state of affairs has led to the development of positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) and negative allosteric modulators (NAMs) of mGluRs. PAMs and NAMs of mGluRs, either of which can inhibit evoked glutamate release, may be suitable for testing in humans. We reviewed results from recent studies of systemically injected PAMs and NAMs of mGluRs in rodents and monkeys, focusing on whether they reduce drug self-administration, reinstatement of drug seeking, and incubation of drug craving. We also review results from rat studies in which PAMs or NAMs of mGluRs were injected intracranially to reduce drug self-administration and reinstatement. We conclude that PAMs and NAMs of mGluRs should be considered for clinical trials.

mGlu5-dependent modulation of anxiety during early withdrawal from binge-drinking in adult and adolescent male mice

Binge alcohol-drinking elicits symptoms of negative affect such as anxiety upon cessation, which is a source of negative reinforcement for perpetuating this pattern of alcohol abuse. Binge-induced anxiety during early (24 h) withdrawal is associated with increased expression of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGlu5) within the nucleus accumbens shell (AcbSh) of adult male mice, but was unchanged in anxiety-resilient adolescents. Herein, we determined the role of mGlu5 signaling in withdrawal-induced anxiety via pharmacological manipulation using the mGlu5 negative allosteric modulator MTEP and the positive allosteric modulator CDPPB. Adult (PND 56) and adolescent (PND 28) male C57BL/6J mice binge-drank for 14 days under 3-bottle-choice procedures for 2 h/day; control animals drank water only. Approximately 24 h following the final alcohol presentation, animals were treated with 30 mg/kg IP MTEP, CDPPB, or vehicle and then tested, thirty minutes later, for behavioral signs of anxiety. Vehicle-treated binge-drinking adults exhibited hyperanxiety in all paradigms, while vehicle-treated binge-drinking adolescents did not exhibit withdrawal-induced anxiety. In adults, 30 mg/kg MTEP decreased alcohol-induced anxiety across paradigms, while 3 mg/kg MTEP was anxiolytic in adult water controls. CDPPB was modestly anxiogenic in both alcohol- and water-drinking mice. Adolescent animals showed minimal response to either CDPPB or MTEP, suggesting that anxiety in adolescence may be mGlu5-independent. These results demonstrate a causal role for mGlu5 in withdrawal-induced anxiety in adults and suggest age-related differences in the behavioral pharmacology of the negative reinforcing properties of alcohol.

Neurogranin in the nucleus accumbens regulates NMDA receptor tolerance and motivation for ethanol seeking

Dysfunction of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) signaling in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) has been implicated in the pathophysiology of alcohol use disorders (AUD). Neurogranin (Ng), a calmodulin-binding protein, is exclusively expressed in the post-synapse, and mediates NMDAR driven synaptic plasticity by regulating the calcium-calmodulin (Ca²⁺-CaM) pathway. To study the functional role of Ng in AUD, we administrated behavior tests including Pavlovian instrument transfer (PIT), operant conditioning, and rotarod test using Ng null mice (Ng^-/- mice). We used adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated Ng expression and pharmacological manipulation to validate behavioral responses in Ng^-/- mice. The results from our multidisciplinary approaches demonstrated that deficit of Ng increases tolerance to NMDAR inhibition and elicit faster cue reactivity during PIT without changes in ethanol reward. Operant conditioning results demonstrated that Ng^-/- mice self-administered significantly more ethanol and displayed reduced sensitivity to aversive motivation. We identified that ethanol exposure decreases mGluR5 (metabotropic glutamate receptor 5) expression in the NAc of Ng^-/- mice and pharmacological inhibition of mGluR5 reverses NMDAR desensitization in Ng^-/- mice. Together these findings specifically suggest that accumbal Ng plays an essential role in the counterbalance between NMDAR and mGluR5 signaling; which alters NMDAR resistance, and thereby altering aversive motivation for ethanol and may ultimately contribute to susceptibility for alcohol addiction.

Metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 as a potential target for smoking cessation

RATIONALE

Most habitual smokers find it difficult to quit smoking because they are dependent upon the nicotine present in tobacco smoke. Tobacco dependence is commonly treated pharmacologically using nicotine replacement therapy or drugs, such as varenicline, that target the nicotinic receptor. Relapse rates, however, remain high, and there remains a need to develop novel non-nicotinic pharmacotherapies for the dependence that are more effective than existing treatments.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this paper is to review the evidence from preclinical and clinical studies that drugs that antagonise the metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) in the brain are likely to be efficacious as treatments for tobacco dependence.

RESULTS

Imaging studies reveal that chronic exposure to tobacco smoke reduces the density of mGluR5s in human brain. Preclinical results demonstrate that negative allosteric modulators (NAMs) at mGluR5 attenuate both nicotine self-administration and the reinstatement of responding evoked by exposure to conditioned cues paired with nicotine delivery. They also attenuate the effects of nicotine on brain dopamine pathways implicated in addiction.

CONCLUSIONS

Although mGluR5 NAMs attenuate most of the key facets of nicotine dependence, they potentiate the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. This may limit their value as smoking cessation aids. The NAMs that have been employed most widely in preclinical studies of nicotine dependence have too many "off-target" effects to be used clinically. However, newer mGluR5 NAMs have been developed for clinical use in other indications. Future studies will determine if these agents can also be used effectively and safely to treat tobacco dependence.

mGlu1 receptor as a drug target for treatment of substance use disorders: time to gather stones together?

Modulation of the mGlu1 receptor was repeatedly shown to inhibit various phenomena associated with exposure to abused drugs. Efficacy in preclinical models was observed with both positive and negative allosteric modulators (PAMs and NAMs, respectively) using essentially non-overlapping sets of experimental methods. Taken together, these data indicate that the mGlu1 receptor certainly plays a significant role in the plasticity triggered by the exposure to abused drugs and is involved in the maintenance of drug-seeking and drug-taking behaviors. Understanding whether modulation of the mGlu1 receptor activity can also affect drug-seeking and drug-taking in humans could have a significant impact on the future development of medications in this field. We argue that the mGlu1 receptor NAMs have a significant value as potential tools for human experimental pharmacology that could help to validate methods used in preclinical research. Compared with the PAMs, the mGlu1 receptor NAMs appear to be better candidates for this role due to the following: (1) a number of highly potent, selective, and chemically diverse mGlu1 receptor NAMs to choose from; (2) availability of high-quality PET ligands to monitor target exposure; and (3) a rich pharmacological profile with a number of effects that can complement anti-addictive action (e.g., anxiolytic/antidepressant) and may also serve as additional pharmacodynamic readouts during the preclinical-to-clinical translation. We believe that the mGlu1 receptor NAMs have a significant value as potential tools for human experimental pharmacology that could help to validate methods used in preclinical research.

Potentiation of amygdala AMPA receptor activity selectively promotes escalated alcohol self-administration in a CaMKII-dependent manner

Growing evidence indicates that drugs of abuse gain control over the individual by usurping glutamate-linked mechanisms of neuroplasticity in reward-related brain regions. Accordingly, we have shown that glutamate α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPAR) activity in the amygdala is required for the positive reinforcing effects of alcohol, which underlie the initial stages of addiction. It is unknown, however, if enhanced AMPAR activity in the amygdala facilitates alcohol self-administration, which is a kernel premise of glutamate hypotheses of addiction. Here, we show that low-dose alcohol (0.6 g/kg/30 minutes) self-administration increases phosphorylation (activation) of AMPAR subtype GluA1 S831 (pGluA1 S831) in the central amygdala (CeA), basolateral amygdala and nucleus accumbens core (AcbC) of selectively bred alcohol-preferring P-rats as compared with behavior-matched (non-drug) sucrose controls. The functional role of enhanced AMPAR activity was assessed via site-specific infusion of the AMPAR positive modulator, aniracetam, in the CeA and AcbC prior to alcohol self-administration. Intra-CeA aniracetam increased alcohol-reinforced but not sucrose-reinforced responding and was ineffective following intra-AcbC infusion. Because GluA1 S831 is a Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) substrate, we sought to determine if AMPAR regulation of enhanced alcohol self-administration is dependent on CaMKII activity. Intra-CeA infusion of the cell-permeable CaMKII peptide inhibitor myristolated autocamtide-2-related inhibitory peptide (m-AIP) dose-dependently reduced alcohol self-administration. A subthreshold dose of m-AIP also blocked the aniracetam-induced escalation of alcohol self-administration, demonstrating that AMPAR-mediated potentiation of alcohol reinforcement requires CaMKII activity in the amygdala. Enhanced activity of plasticity-linked AMPAR-CaMKII signaling in the amygdala may promote escalated alcohol use via increased positive reinforcement during the initial stages of addiction.

Glutamate plasticity woven through the progression to alcohol use disorder: a multi-circuit perspective

Glutamate signaling in the brain is one of the most studied targets in the alcohol research field. Here, we report the current understanding of how the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate, its receptors, and its transporters are involved in low, episodic, and heavy alcohol use. Specific animal behavior protocols can be used to assess these different drinking levels, including two-bottle choice, operant self-administration, drinking in the dark, the alcohol deprivation effect, intermittent access to alcohol, and chronic intermittent ethanol vapor inhalation. Importantly, these methods are not limited to a specific category, since they can be interchanged to assess different states in the development from low to heavy drinking. We encourage a circuit-based perspective beyond the classic mesolimbic-centric view, as multiple structures are dynamically engaged during the transition from positive- to negative-related reinforcement to drive alcohol drinking. During this shift from lower-level alcohol drinking to heavy alcohol use, there appears to be a shift from metabotropic glutamate receptor-dependent behaviors to N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-related processes. Despite high efficacy of the glutamate-related pharmaceutical acamprosate in animal models of drinking, it is ineffective as treatment in the clinic. Therefore, research needs to focus on other promising glutamatergic compounds to reduce heavy drinking or mediate withdrawal symptoms or both.

Chronic intermittent alcohol disrupts the GluN2B-associated proteome and specifically regulates group I mGlu receptor-dependent long-term depression

N-Methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are major targets of both acute and chronic alcohol, as well as regulators of plasticity in a number of brain regions. Aberrant plasticity may contribute to the treatment resistance and high relapse rates observed in alcoholics. Recent work suggests that chronic alcohol treatment preferentially modulates both the expression and subcellular localization of NMDARs containing the GluN2B subunit. Signaling through synaptic and extrasynaptic GluN2B-NMDARs has already been implicated in the pathophysiology of various other neurological disorders. NMDARs interact with a large number of proteins at the glutamate synapse, and a better understanding of how alcohol modulates this proteome is needed. We employed a discovery-based proteomic approach in subcellular fractions of hippocampal tissue from chronic intermittent alcohol (CIE)-exposed C57Bl/6J mice to gain insight into alcohol-induced changes in GluN2B signaling complexes. Protein enrichment analyses revealed changes in the association of post-synaptic proteins, including scaffolding, glutamate receptor and PDZ-domain binding proteins with GluN2B. In particular, GluN2B interaction with metabotropic glutamate (mGlu)1/5 receptor-dependent long-term depression (LTD)-associated proteins such as Arc and Homer 1 was increased, while GluA2 was decreased. Accordingly, we found a lack of mGlu1/5 -induced LTD while α1 -adrenergic receptor-induced LTD remained intact in hippocampal CA1 following CIE. These data suggest that CIE specifically disrupts mGlu1/5 -LTD, representing a possible connection between NMDAR and mGlu receptor signaling. These studies not only demonstrate a new way in which alcohol can modulate plasticity in the hippocampus but also emphasize the utility of this discovery-based proteomic approach to generate new hypotheses regarding alcohol-related mechanisms.

Metabotropic and ionotropic glutamate receptors as potential targets for the treatment of alcohol use disorder

Emerging evidence indicates that dysfunctional glutamate neurotransmission is critical in the initiation and development of alcohol and drug dependence. Alcohol consumption induced downregulation of glutamate transporter 1 (GLT-1) as reported in previous studies from our laboratory. Glutamate is the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, which acts via interactions with several glutamate receptors. Alcohol consumption interferes with the glutamatergic signal transmission by altering the functions of these receptors. Among the glutamate receptors involved in alcohol-drinking behavior are the metabotropic receptors such as mGluR1/5, mGluR2/3, and mGluR7, as well as the ionotropic receptors, NMDA and AMPA. Preclinical studies using agonists and antagonists implicate these glutamatergic receptors in the development of alcohol use disorder (AUD). Therefore, the purpose of this review is to discuss the neurocircuitry involving glutamate transmission in animals exposed to alcohol and further outline the role of metabotropic and ionotropic receptors in the regulation of alcohol-drinking behavior. This review provides ample information about the potential therapeutic role of glutamatergic receptors for the treatment of AUD.

Test for association of common variants in GRM7 with alcohol consumption

Recent work using a mouse model has identified the glutamate metabotropic receptor 7 (Grm7) gene as a strong candidate gene for alcohol consumption. Although there has been some work examining the effect of human glutamate metabotropic receptor 7 (GRM7) polymorphisms on human substance use disorders, the majority of the work has focused on other psychiatric disorders such as ADHD, major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, and autism spectrum disorders. The current study aimed to evaluate evidence for association between GRM7 and alcohol behaviors in humans using a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) approach, as well as a gene-based approach. Using 1803 non-Hispanic European Americans (EAs) (source: the Colorado Center on Antisocial Drug Dependence [CADD]) and 1049 EA subjects from an independent replication sample (source: the Genetics of Antisocial Drug Dependence [GADD]), two SNPs in GRM7 were examined for possible association with alcohol consumption using two family-based association tests implemented in FBAT and QTDT. Rs3749380 was suggestively associated with alcohol consumption in the CADD sample (p = 0.010) with the minor T allele conferring risk. There was no evidence for association in the GADD sample. A gene-based test using four Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) revealed no association between variation in GRM7 and alcohol consumption. This study had several limitations: the SNPs chosen likely do not tag expression quantitative trait loci; a human alcohol consumption phenotype was used, complicating the interpretation with respect to rodent studies that found evidence for a cis-regulatory link between alcohol preference and Grm7; and only common SNPs imputed in all four datasets were included in the gene-based test. These limitations highlight the fact that rare variants, some potentially important common signals in the gene, and regions farther upstream were not examined.

Rodent models and mechanisms of voluntary binge-like ethanol consumption: Examples, opportunities, and strategies for preclinical research

Binge ethanol consumption has widespread negative consequences for global public health. Rodent models offer exceptional power to explore the neurobiology underlying and affected by binge-like drinking as well as target potential prevention, intervention, and treatment strategies. An important characteristic of these models is their ability to consistently produce pharmacologically-relevant blood ethanol concentration. This review examines the current available rodent models of voluntary, pre-dependent binge-like ethanol consumption and their utility in various research strategies. Studies have demonstrated that a diverse array of neurotransmitters regulate binge-like drinking, resembling some findings from other drinking models. Furthermore, repeated binge-like drinking recruits neuroadaptive mechanisms in mesolimbocortical reward circuitry. New opportunities that these models offer in the current context of mechanistic research are also discussed.

Negative Allosteric Modulators of Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors Subtype 5 in Addiction: a Therapeutic Window

BACKGROUND

Abundant evidence at the anatomical, electrophysiological, and molecular levels implicates metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 5 (mGluR5) in addiction. Consistently, the effects of a wide range of doses of different mGluR5 negative allosteric modulators (NAMs) have been tested in various animal models of addiction. Here, these studies were subjected to a systematic review to find out if mGluR5 NAMs have a therapeutic potential that can be translated to the clinic.

METHODS

Literature on consumption/self-administration and reinstatement of drug seeking as outcomes of interest published up to April 2015 was retrieved via PubMed. The review focused on the effects of systemic (i.p., i.v., s.c.) administration of the mGluR5 NAMs 3-((2-Methyl-4-thiazolyl)ethynyl)pyridine (MTEP) and 2-Methyl-6-(phenylethynyl)pyridine (MPEP) on paradigms with cocaine, ethanol, nicotine, and food in rats.

RESULTS

MTEP and MPEP were found to reduce self-administration of cocaine, ethanol, and nicotine at doses ≥1mg/kg and 2.5mg/kg, respectively. Dose-response relationship resembled a sigmoidal curve, with low doses not reaching statistical significance and high doses reliably inhibiting self-administration of drugs of abuse. Importantly, self-administration of cocaine, ethanol, and nicotine, but not food, was reduced by MTEP and MPEP in the dose range of 1 to 2mg/kg and 2.5 to 3.2mg/kg, respectively. This dose range corresponds to approximately 50% to 80% mGluR5 occupancy. Interestingly, the limited data found in mice and monkeys showed a similar therapeutic window.

CONCLUSION

Altogether, this review suggests a therapeutic window for mGluR5 NAMs that can be translated to the treatment of substance-related and addictive disorders.

Ethanol-Associated Changes in Glutamate Reward Neurocircuitry: A Minireview of Clinical and Preclinical Genetic Findings

Herein, we have reviewed the role of glutamate, the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, in a number of neurochemical, -physiological, and -behavioral processes mediating the development of alcohol dependence. The findings discussed include results from both preclinical as well as neuroimaging and postmortem clinical studies. Expression levels for a number of glutamate-associated genes and/or proteins are modulated by alcohol abuse and dependence. These changes in expression include metabotropic receptors and ionotropic receptor subunits as well as different glutamate transporters. Moreover, these changes in gene expression parallel the pharmacologic manipulation of these same receptors and transporters. Some of these gene expression changes may have predated alcohol abuse and dependence because a number of glutamate-associated polymorphisms are related to a genetic predisposition to develop alcohol dependence. Other glutamate-associated polymorphisms are linked to age at the onset of alcohol-dependence and initial level of response/sensitivity to alcohol. Finally, findings of innate and/or ethanol-induced glutamate-associated gene expression differences/changes observed in a genetic animal model of alcoholism, the P rat, are summarized. Overall, the existing literature indicates that changes in glutamate receptors, transporters, enzymes, and scaffolding proteins are crucial for the development of alcohol dependence and there is a substantial genetic component to these effects. This indicates that continued research into the genetic underpinnings of these glutamate-associated effects will provide important novel molecular targets for treating alcohol abuse and dependence.

CaMKII inhibition in the prefrontal cortex specifically increases the positive reinforcing effects of sweetened alcohol in C57BL/6J mice

Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) is a multifunctional enzyme that is required for synaptic plasticity and has been proposed to be a primary molecular component of the etiology of alcohol addiction. Chronic alcohol intake upregulates CaMKIIα protein expression in reward-related brain regions including the amygdala and nucleus accumbens, and CaMKIIα activity in the amygdala is required for the positive reinforcing effects of alcohol, suggesting this system promotes consumption in the early stages of alcohol addiction. Alternatively, the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) is known to inhibit limbic activity via CaMKII-dependent excitatory projections and may, therefore, enable top-down regulation of motivation. Here we sought to remove that regulatory control by site-specifically inhibiting CaMKII activity in the mPFC, and measured effects on the positive reinforcing effects of sweetened alcohol in C57BL/6J mice. Infusion of the CAMKII inhibitor KN-93 (0-10.0 μg) in the mPFC primarily increased alcohol+sucrose reinforced response rate in a dose- and time-dependent manner. KN-93 infusion reduced response rate in behavior-matched sucrose-only controls. Importantly, potentiation of operant responding for sweetened alcohol occurred immediately after infusion, at a time during which effects on sucrose responding were not observed, and persisted through the session. These results suggest that endogenous CaMKII activity in the mPFC exerts inhibitory control over the positive reinforcing effects of alcohol. Downregulation of CaMKII signaling in the mPFC might contribute to escalated alcohol use.

Glutamatergic transmission in drug reward: implications for drug addiction

Individuals addicted to drugs of abuse such as alcohol, nicotine, cocaine, and heroin are a significant burden on healthcare systems all over the world. The positive reinforcing (rewarding) effects of the above mentioned drugs play a major role in the initiation and maintenance of the drug-taking habit. Thus, understanding the neurochemical mechanisms underlying the reinforcing effects of drugs of abuse is critical to reducing the burden of drug addiction in society. Over the last two decades, there has been an increasing focus on the role of the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate in drug addiction. In this review, pharmacological and genetic evidence supporting the role of glutamate in mediating the rewarding effects of the above described drugs of abuse will be discussed. Further, the review will discuss the role of glutamate transmission in two complex heterogeneous brain regions, namely the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) and the ventral tegmental area (VTA), which mediate the rewarding effects of drugs of abuse. In addition, several medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration that act by blocking glutamate transmission will be discussed in the context of drug reward. Finally, this review will discuss future studies needed to address currently unanswered gaps in knowledge, which will further elucidate the role of glutamate in the rewarding effects of drugs of abuse.

Group 1 mGlu-family proteins promote neuroadaptation to ethanol and withdrawal-associated hippocampal damage

BACKGROUND

Group 1 mGlu-family proteins (i.e., mGlu) consist of mGlu1 and mGlu5 and their activity may influence voluntary ethanol intake. The present studies sought to examine the influence of these receptors on the development of ethanol dependence using in vitro and in vivo models of chronic, intermittent ethanol (CIE).

METHODS

Rat hippocampal explants were exposed to CIE with or without the addition of mGlu1 antagonist (7-hydroxyimino)cyclopropa[b]chromen-1a-carboxylate ethyl ester (CPCCOEt; 0.5, 1, and 3μM) or mGlu5 antagonist (E)-2-methyl-6-styryl-pyridine (SIB-1893; 20, 100, and 200μM) to assess sparing of withdrawal-induced cytotoxicity. In a separate study, adult male rats were administered CIE with or without the addition of oral administration of group 1 mGlu antagonist 2-methyl-6-(phenylethynyl)-pyridine (MPEP; 3mg/kg). Blood ethanol levels (BELs) were determined at 0930h on Day 2 of Weeks 1, 2, and 3. Withdrawal behavior was monitored during Day 6 of the third consecutive withdrawal.

RESULTS

CIE produced significant hippocampal cytotoxicity. These effects were attenuated by co-exposure to CPCCOEt (3μM) with ethanol in the CA3. By contrast, these effects were blocked by SIB-1893 (20μM) in each primary cell layer. Oral administration of MPEP with ethanol significantly attenuated behavioral effects of subsequent withdrawal and reduced BELs.

CONCLUSIONS

These data demonstrate that ethanol activates group 1 mGlu-family proteins to promote withdrawal-associated cytotoxicity in vitro and physical dependence in vivo. These findings suggest that group 1 mGlu-family proteins may be therapeutic targets for treatment of alcohol use disorders.

Dyskinesias and impulse control disorders in Parkinson's disease: From pathogenesis to potential therapeutic approaches

Dopaminergic treatment in Parkinson's disease (PD) reduces the severity of motor symptoms of the disease. However, its chronic use is associated with disabling motor and behavioral side effects, among which levodopa-induced dyskinesias (LID) and impulse control disorders (ICD) are the most common. The underlying mechanisms and pathological substrate of these dopaminergic complications are not fully understood. Recently, the refinement of imaging techniques and the study of the genetics and molecular bases of LID and ICD indicate that, although different, they could share some features. In addition, animal models of parkinsonism with LID have provided important knowledge about mechanisms underlying such complications. In contrast, animal models of parkinsonism and abnormal impulsivity, although useful regarding some aspects of human ICD, do not fully resemble the clinical phenotype of ICD in patients with PD, and until now have provided limited information. Studies on animal models of addiction could complement the previous models and provide some insights into the background of these behavioral complications given that ICD are regarded as behavioral addictions. Here we review the most relevant advances in relation to imaging, genetics, biochemistry and pharmacological interventions to treat LID and ICD in patients with PD and in animal models with a view to better understand the overlapping and unique maladaptations to dopaminergic therapy that are associated with LID and ICD.

Frequency of alcohol consumption in humans; the role of metabotropic glutamate receptors and downstream signaling pathways

Rodent models implicate metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) and downstream signaling pathways in addictive behaviors through metaplasticity. One way mGluRs can influence synaptic plasticity is by regulating the local translation of AMPA receptor trafficking proteins via eukaryotic elongation factor 2 (eEF2). However, genetic variation in this pathway has not been examined with human alcohol use phenotypes. Among a sample of adults living in Detroit, Michigan (Detroit Neighborhood Health Study; n = 788; 83% African American), 206 genetic variants across the mGluR-eEF2-AMPAR pathway (including GRM1, GRM5, HOMER1, HOMER2, EEF2K, MTOR, EIF4E, EEF2, CAMK2A, ARC, GRIA1 and GRIA4) were found to predict number of drinking days per month (corrected P-value < 0.01) when considered as a set (set-based linear regression conducted in PLINK). In addition, a CpG site located in the 3'-untranslated region on the north shore of EEF2 (cg12255298) was hypermethylated in those who drank more frequently (P < 0.05). Importantly, the association between several genetic variants within the mGluR-eEF2-AMPAR pathway and alcohol use behavior (i.e., consumption and alcohol-related problems) replicated in the Grady Trauma Project (GTP), an independent sample of adults living in Atlanta, Georgia (n = 1034; 95% African American), including individual variants in GRM1, GRM5, EEF2, MTOR, GRIA1, GRIA4 and HOMER2 (P < 0.05). Gene-based analyses conducted in the GTP indicated that GRM1 (empirical P < 0.05) and EEF2 (empirical P < 0.01) withstood multiple test corrections and predicted increased alcohol consumption and related problems. In conclusion, insights from rodent studies enabled the identification of novel human alcohol candidate genes within the mGluR-eEF2-AMPAR pathway.