Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 channel modulates the abuse‐related mechanisms of methamphetamine through interaction with dopamine transporter

Background and Purpose Methamphetamine (METH) use disorder has risen dramatically over the past decade, and there are currently no FDA‐approved medications due, in part, to gaps in our understanding of the pharmacological mechanisms related to METH action in the brain. Experimental Approach Here, we investigated whether transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) mediates each of several METH abuse‐related behaviours in rodents: self‐administration, drug‐primed reinstatement, acquisition of conditioned place preference, and hyperlocomotion. Additionally, METH‐induced molecular (i.e., neurotransmitter and protein) changes in the brain were compared between wild‐type and TRPA1 knock‐out mice. Finally, the relationship between TRPA1 and the dopamine transporter was investigated through immunoprecipitation and dopamine reuptake assays. Key Results TRPA1 antagonism blunted METH self‐administration and drug‐primed reinstatement of METH‐seeking behaviour. Further, development of METH‐induced conditioned place preference and hyperlocomotion were inhibited by TRPA1 antagonist treatment, effects that were not observed in TRPA1 knock‐out mice. Similarly, molecular studies revealed METH‐induced increases in dopamine levels and expression of dopamine system‐related proteins in wild‐type, but not in TRPA1 knock‐out mice. Furthermore, pharmacological blockade of TRPA1 receptors reduced the interaction between TRPA1 and the dopamine transporter, thereby increasing dopamine reuptake activity by the transporter. Conclusion and Implications This study demonstrates that TRPA1 is involved in the abuse‐related behavioural effects of METH, potentially through its modulatory role in METH‐induced activation of dopaminergic neurotransmission. Taken together, these data suggest that TRPA1 may be a novel therapeutic target for treating METH use disorder. ▪