Given that NPY modulates consummatory behavior and the positive, rewarding properties associated with alcohol consumption (Thiele et al., 2004b), and the somewhat inconsistent results from human studies, the neuropeptide Y system seems a good candidate to study in a population of densely affected, alcohol dependent families. We have performed a detailed evaluation of the NPY system, including NPY and its receptor genes NPY2R, NPY1R and NPY5R, in relation to alcohol dependence with and without withdrawal symptoms, and cocaine dependence. The latter was included because of evidence that NPY may be involved in cocaine-seeking behavior and in the response to cocaine.
