EXPLORING ALTERATIONS IN DOPAMINE SIGNALING IN THE NUCLEUS ACCUMBENS ASSOCIATED WITH COCAINE SELF-ADMINISTRATION ESCALATION IN RATS. Costa, G. V. L., Cruz, F. C., Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo/SP.

Cocaine is one of the most widely used illicit drugs worldwide, and its use has been on the rise in recent years. When used repeatedly, this substance can lead to addiction, which can have adverse consequences for both the individual affected and society. It is noteworthy that only a small percentage of cocaine users develop addiction (approximately 4%). Despite its significance, the mechanisms underlying the transition from sporadic to compulsive use are still not fully comprehended. There is evidence suggesting that neuroplasticity in the nucleus accumbens, induced by repeated cocaine use, may play a pivotal role in the development of dependence on this substance.