In this review, we focus on the neuroimmune basis of alcohol action from preclinical and clinical findings. We discuss the key cell types in brain, molecular targets, and behavioral consequences of a dysregulated neuroimmune system following exposure to chronic alcohol. We also review the convergent neuroimmune pathways implicated for other drugs of abuse (e.g., opioids and psychostimulants) and other psychiatric disorders comorbid with AUD. Because there are many detailed topics pertinent to this rapidly developing literature, certain aspects are outside the scope of this review or are reviewed elsewhere. Where appropriate, we direct the reader’s attention to other relevant reviews.
