Current research supports the neuroimmune system, particularly innate immune responses in the peripheral and central nervous systems, as an important target of alcohol that may contribute to abuse and dependence (Bachtell et al., 2017; Crews et al., 2015; Cui et al., 2014; Mayfield et al., 2013; Robinson et al., 2014). Genetic and behavioral evidence points to a neuroimmune hypothesis of alcohol addiction, which posits that alcohol abuse activates innate immune signaling in the brain and further drives alcohol use (Mayfield and Harris, 2017). Neuroimmune molecules, often expressed and secreted by glia, alter neuronal function to regulate alcohol behaviors (Robinson et al., 2014). Improved understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying AUD has led to the identification of new immune-related therapeutic targets (Lacagnina et al., 2017). AUD is often comorbid with other psychiatric disorders, such as other substance use disorders (SUDs), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depressive disorder (MDD). Changes in neuroimmune signaling also occur in these disorders, suggesting overlapping mechanisms for AUD and other drugs of abuse, PTSD, and MDD.
