Multiple brain regions are involved in the establishment and maintenance of addictive behavior. The prefrontal cortical regulation of cognitive and emotional processes is changed by drug abuse, such that inhibitory control of these processes is deficient and drug use is reinforced [3], [4]. The aPFC, defined as the anterior pole of Brodmann Area 10 (BA10), contains fewer cells, but with a higher spine density and length, than any other cortical region [5]. It is reciprocally connected to the prefrontal anterior temporal and cingulate cortices and has been suggested to serve an important integrative role in the pursuit of behavioral goals [6]. Concurrent activation of the aPFC and the orbitofrontal cortex has been demonstrated following administration of cocaine to cocaine-abusing individuals [7]. As a consequence, altered function of the aPFC could have important ramifications for decision-making capability in drug abusers.
