Figure 1:

Brain Reward Cascade [6,7], In this cascade, the stimulation of the serotonergic system within the hypothalamus, through innervation, stimulates delta/mu receptors via the release of enkephalin. Further activation of the enkephalinergic system leads to inhibition of GABA transmission in the striatum via enkephalin stimulation of mu receptors upon GABA neurons. This inhibition allows the fine-tuning of GABA activity. Additionally, this provides the normal release of dopamine at the projected area of the NAc. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter with multiple essential functions including behavioral effects such as “pleasure” and “stress reduction.” Without the typical function of dopamine, an individual will suffer from cravings and may have difficulty coping with stress.