Dr. Hagiwara synthesized a new drug in her laboratory and discovered that it enhanced dopamine activity in the mesolimbic system of rats. What conclusions should Dr. Hagiwara draw from this finding?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Increased dopamine activity in the mesolimbic system is associated with the reward pathway in the brain, and is also involved in addiction. Therefore, there is a significant risk that the drug would be addictive to humans. However, further research is needed to confirm this potential for addiction. Animal studies cannot always be directly translated to human effects, but they do provide important initial insights into potential risks and benefits of new drugs. It would be premature to immediately try the drug on human volunteers without further testing and evaluation.

Dr Hagiwara Synthesized a New Drug in Her Laboratory and Discovered