Understanding the role of neuroscience in pathological gambling

• João Miguel Alves Ferreira ^[1] ; Sergii Tukaiev ^[2]
  1. [1] Universidade de Coimbra

     Universidade de Coimbra

     Coimbra (Sé Nova), Portugal

     
  2. [2] Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv

     Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv

     Ucrania

     
• Localización: Promoção e educaçã opara a saúde: Inovação paraa sustentabilida de e o bem-estar / coord. por Marcelo Coppi, Hugo Oliveira, Ana Maria Cristovão, Jorge Bonito, 2025, ISBN 978-972-778-439-4, págs. 417-428
• Idioma: inglés
• Texto completo no disponible (Saber más ...)
• Resumen

  • Gambling is an inherent and culturally associated practice, varying according to culture. Addictions are arguably the most costly medical diseases, with annual costs greater than those associated with stroke, heart disease and diabetes combined. Molecular neurobiological studies have produced enormous amounts of valuable information on neurological response mechanisms and their physiological adaptive changes and in cultural context. In this review study, we propose that in relation to addiction, this information is of limited value because almost all cellular functions seem to be involved, telling us only that neurons adapt to "addictive drugs" as they do to all kinds of functional disorders, regardless of their culture. In relation to the neurobiology and neurochemistry of gambling, we point out that imbalances within the brain's neurotransmission system influence both behavioural and substance addictions, with both sharing elements. Furthermore, neuroimaging studies corroborate this theory. We attempt to summarise an animal research study "The Mouse Game Task" which not only demonstrates that laboratory mice can gamble at odds, but also provides evidence that the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin play a role in gambling behaviour independently of the psychosocial context inherent in culture and derived cultural upbringing. As highlighted, this study uses reward versus punishment scenarios to better understand the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine and their roles in relation to impulsivity and addiction. With an increasingly rich “multicultural” society, cultural competency, education in nursing, psychology and medicine should be built and promoted, encompassing organisational, educational and professional elements to develop the performance of future health professionals.