Correlating NUPR1-CHOP Expression with Autophagy and Apoptosis in Methamphetamine-Exposed Striatal Regions

Abstract

This study investigates the correlation between NUPR1-CHOP expression and autophagy/apoptosis in methamphetamine (METH)-exposed striatal regions. METH abuse poses significant neurotoxicity risks, particularly in the striatum, a vital CNS structure regulating motor function and reward processing. The NUPR1-CHOP pathway, implicated in cellular stress responses, represents a potential mechanistic link to METH-induced neurotoxicity. Through postmortem analysis of striatal tissue from chronic METH users, we assessed NUPR1-CHOP expression levels and their association with markers of autophagy and apoptosis. Our findings reveal elevated NUPR1-CHOP expression in METH-exposed striatal regions, correlating with dysregulated autophagy and increased apoptotic activity. These results suggest a potential role for the NUPR1-CHOP pathway in mediating METH-induced neurotoxicity via modulation of autophagic and apoptotic pathways in the striatum. Understanding these molecular interactions may offer insights into novel therapeutic targets for mitigating the adverse neurological effects of chronic METH abuse.