Specific genes of the dopaminergic (dop-3) and serotonergic (tph-1) pathways contribute to the effects of ethanol consumption in Caenorhabditis elegans

Different responses, which may be relevant to the pathogenesis of human alcohol use disorder, were observed in wild-type worms, a dopamine receptor mutant, and a serotonin biosynthesis null mutant in a variety of assays performed. Furthermore, we present a 3-step experimental model for drug tolerance, based on the well-established kinetic chemotaxis behavioral paradigm ("diacetyl race"). This model provides new insights into the effects of alcohol in worms, particularly regarding the roles of dopamine and serotonin neurotransmission. Importantly, this model holds potential for investigating the effects of other addictive substances beyond alcohol.