Beyond dopamine: Broader neuromodulatory contributions in sign- and goal-tracking
Abstract
Sign- and goal-tracking behaviors provide a powerful framework for understanding individual differences in cue-motivated responding and vulnerability to addiction. While dopamine has long been recognized as central to the attribution of incentive salience, growing evidence indicates that multiple neuromodulatory systems contribute to these behaviors through distinct mechanisms. This review synthesizes findings on the cholinergic, serotonergic, adrenergic, opioid, and stimulant (nicotine, caffeine) systems in modulating sign- and goal-tracking in rodents. A better understanding of these mechanisms may guide individualized interventions to reduce cue-triggered relapse and improve addiction treatment outcomes.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior
Neural and Behavioral Psychology Studies
Neuroscience and Neuropharmacology Research
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Psychopharmacology
- Volume
- 243
- Issue
- 10
- Pages
- 2223–2235
- Publication date
- 4 March 2026
- Language
- EN