Sex differences in the nicotinic acetylcholine and dopamine receptor systems underlying tobacco smoking addiction

Abstract

Converging lines of evidence suggest that men generally smoke for nicotine-related reinforcement, whereas women smoke for non-nicotine factors. Women have more difficulty quitting smoking and are less responsive to nicotine replacement therapies than men, underscoring the importance of examining sex differences in the neurochemical mechanisms underlying nicotine-motivated behavior. We review the recent imaging literature on sex differences in the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor system and in the dopaminergic system in response to nicotine administration and tobacco smoking. We offer an explanation to unify imaging findings related to the dopamine system. We then propose a course of action for future medication development for tobacco smoking addiction.