This review will attempt to consolidate the available information regarding nicotinic receptor-mediated synaptic plasticity and integrate these enduring neural adaptations with current models of addictive disorders. We will look at a myriad of addictive processes, the underlying neural circuits and how these pathways converge for addictive behaviors to emerge. The complexity of addictive disorders suggests there are a considerable number of possible targets for intervention that could potentially reverse drug-induced neural adaptations. We will aim to focus this paper towards nicotinic receptor-mediated neuroplasticity, with an emphasis on nicotine and ethanol.
