altering these trophic effects of Ach170, 172. These neuro-developmental effects appear to be highly selective for particular brain regions172. Preclinical studies have also demonstrated changes in other monoamine systems following prenatal nicotine exposure. Dopamine synthesis and turnover is decreased in the forebrain and brain stem173, 174, striatal and VTA dopamine content is reduced, and striatal D2 receptor binding is decreased in rats exposed to nicotine175. Serotonin synthesis and turnover is likewise decreased in the forebrain and brain stem of exposed rats 174. In addition, serotonin transporter density is increased in brain stem and decreased in forebrain regions with prenatal nicotine exposure176-178.
