Always easier said than done, but for one Research Company at the University of Buffalo, they have found a way to change alcohol drinking behavior of rodents, using emerging technique of optogenetics, which uses light to stimulate neurons. The work of this team of researchers could lead to powerful more effective ways to treat alcoholism, and neurological and mental illnesses; it is also helping to explain the underlying neurochemical basis of drug addiction. In the experiments rats were trained to drink alcohol in a way that mimics human binge drinking behavior.

“By stimulating certain dopamine neurons in a precise pattern, resulting in low but prolonged levels of dopamine release, we could prevent rats from binging. The rats just flat out stopped drinking,” says a head researcher at Buffalo University. Interestingly enough, the rodents continued to avoid alcohol even after the stimulation of neurons ended. Based on the study, this will help in aiding individuals along with continued recovery support to have a more successful chance of not relapsing. When paired with proper treatment, it could be a real game changer for people who are currently in recovery or are ready to seek it. Seabrook is a facility that utilizes the 12 Step Program while giving you the tools to continue a successful recovery once you leave. To see more information about our services, visit: www.seabrook.org.