Systems Neuroscience of Substance Use-View Presentation

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The session focused on systems neuroscience and its application in studying complex neuropsychiatric conditions, particularly substance use disorders. Systems neuroscience explores brain networks and how they lead to behaviors and associated disorders. This approach is crucial as it moves beyond simple abstinence and acute interventions by recognizing substance use as a spectrum disorder with dynamic courses. The variability within substance use disorders suggests potential subtypes with distinct physiological mechanisms. The complexity of brain reward circuitry necessitates systems biology to quantify subnetwork contributions and understand the spectrum of traits in substance use disorders, potentially identifying new therapeutic interventions. <br /><br />Dr. Trey Ideker discussed molecular network mapping for understanding psychiatric phenotypes and their genetic underpinnings. He illustrated how genetic mapping often yields numerous suggestive peaks, but few significant associations unless augmented by additional patient data. Ideker emphasized the use of protein-protein interaction networks to find convergent elements in comorbid conditions like autism and congenital heart defects, which individually show little genetic overlap. He explored BMI-related genetics in humans and rats, showcasing the power of systems biology in aligning findings across species.<br /><br />Nevin Krogan highlighted the importance of quantitative network approaches in understanding molecular interactions within cells, crucial for disease biology and therapeutic direction. His work in the Cancer Cell Map Initiative and the Psychiatric Cell Map Initiative integrates genomics with molecular interaction data to elucidate disease mechanisms, offering insights into therapeutic strategies.<br /><br />The discussion pointed out the relevance of understanding dynamic, complex systems in chronic conditions like addiction, suggesting parallels with cancer in relapse and treatment adaptation. The need for integrating genetic and environmental data to better predict and interpret complex disease physiology and treatment responses was emphasized.

Keywords

systems neuroscience

neuropsychiatric conditions

substance use disorders

brain networks

systems biology

molecular network mapping

genetic underpinnings

protein-protein interaction

therapeutic interventions

quantitative network approaches

disease mechanisms