Nucleus Accumbens

1 min readEvidence-linked topicGreen Medicine Encyclopedia

Also known as:  Nacc;  Nucleus Accumbens Septi;  Pleasure Center

 

Description

The Nucleus Accumbens is a region of the Striatum of the Basal Ganglia of the Cerebrum of the Brain.  The Nucleus Accumbens is the region of fusion between the head of the Caudate Nucleus and the Putamen, covered on the ventral side by the Olfactory Tubercle.

 

Biological Function of the Nucleus Accumbens

Nervous System

 The Nucleus Accumbens contains a large number ofNicotinic Receptors (i.e. Receptors for Nicotine).

 The Nucleus Accumbens contains a large number of Dopamine D2 Receptors (i.e. Receptors for Dopamine).

 The Nucleus Accumbens contains Dopamine D3 Receptors (i.e. Receptors for Dopamine).

 Increased Dopamine transmission in the Nucleus Accumbens is associated with increased (male) Sexual Desire (libido).  [1]

 

These Substances Enhance the Function of the Nucleus Accumbens

Second Messengers

 Cyclic AMP (cAMP) mediates the release of Dopamine in the NucleusAccumbens.

 

These Substances may Interfere with the Nucleus Accumbens

Recreational Drugs

 Cocaine concentrates in the Nucleus Accumbens.

 

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