Turning on and off the cerebellum in drug-induced memory

Abstract

This thesis examines the role of the cerebellum in drug-induced memories and its connection to the addiction circuit. First, we identify changes in neuronal activity in the cerebellar vermis during the expression of cocaine-associated memories, highlighting differences in the granular layer of the VIII lobe between rats with and without a preference for cocaine-related stimuli. Furthermore, using DREADDs, we reveal that the activation and inhibition of interneurons in the VIII lobe affect preference for cocaine-associated stimuli. On the other hand, we propose a theoretical model and show that inactivation of the DCN prevents the facilitating effect of a lesion in cocaine-conditioned preference. Finally, we observe the regulation of the cerebellum on IL activity through the VTA. In summary, the thesis advances understanding of the cerebellum in addiction, offering therapeutic possibilities to address the behavioral alterations associated with addiction.