Addicted flies have been created to study cocaine addiction

It has become known that American scientists from the University of Utah have made an unusual breakthrough in neurobiology.

Scientists have created the world’s first genetically modified fruit fly capable of voluntarily using cocaine.

This unique model promises to accelerate the search for treatments for cocaine addiction in humans. The study is published in the scientific journal Neuroscience.

Normally, fruit flies categorically avoid cocaine, perceiving it as a plant toxin.

The team found that this is due to the activation of bitter taste receptors on the insects’ legs.

When the experts removed these receptors, the unexpected happened – the flies began to self-select the cocaine-laced sugar syrup.

Fruit flies are a good model for studying cocaine addiction in humans, since 75% of human-related diseases are found in these insects.

In addition, the flies exhibit a similar range of reactions to the psychoactive substance, from hyperactivity to complete disorientation.

Scientists hope that their lab drug-addicted flies will help save human lives.