fMRI findings in motivational behaviour of Pathological Gamblers – A central role of the striatum

Pathological gambling (PG) is characterized by compulsive repetitive uncontrolled gambling despite negative consequences. Studies on substance dependence indicate that a key characteristic in addiction is a dysregulation of the reward brain circuitry, in particular the striatum. In patients addicted to a substance a very salient cue, like a drug, is necessary to significantly activate the reward system. For pathological gambling, the debate is ongoing as to whether the underlying neurobiological mechanisms are similar. Preliminary findings show increased striatum activity in reward anticipation as well as in mot…