Abstract Despite extensive research, the rewarding effects of cannabinoids are still debated. Here, we used a newly established animal procedure called optogenetic intracranial self‐stimulation (ICSS) (oICSS) to re‐examine the abuse potential of cannabinoids in mice. A specific adeno‐associated viral vector carrying a channelrhodopsin gene was microinjected into the ventral tegmental area (VTA)...
Rationale Δ 9 ‐Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) produces both aversive and rewarding effects in animal models. Given that the balance between a drug's affective properties is thought to underlie its abuse potential, it is important to consider these properties of THC and how they (and their balance) are impacted by various factors. In this context, previous studies have examined the effect of THC...