Modelling nicotine relapse: validating the rat intravenous self-administration model for efficacy testing novel treatments for nicotine addiction

Sygnature has been performing preclinical models of drug abuse liability for over 15 years. Here we modify the well-established rat intravenous self-administration model to investigate treatments for substance use disorders, namely nicotine addiction. Rats readily self-administer nicotine and associate positive reinforcement with environmental cues.  Varenicline, a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist commonly prescribed for nicotine cessation, significantly attenuates drug seeking behaviours in rats exposed to nicotine and non-reinforced cues. The model is a useful tool in preclinical efficacy testing of novel therapies for nicotine cessation.