The Neuropsychopharmacology research group of the University of Camerino investigates the neurobiological mechanisms involved in addiction to discover potential pharmacotherapeutic candidates for its treatment. The research is based on preclinical models that aim to reproduce the human condition and which allow to analyze many of the behaviors associated with addiction, such as motivation, withdrawal syndrome and relapse. They also allow for the study of behaviors that often show co-morbidity with addiction, such as heightened sensitivity to stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. We have maintained for several years a unique colony of alcohol-preferring genetically selected rats that are used to investigate the neurobiology of alcoholism and represent an unique preclinical model for the development of pharmacotherapies. To elucidate the neurobiological mechanisms underlying genetic vulnerability, the study of behavior is supported by other approaches that allow to uncover the neurobiology of the disorders. These techniques include the analysis of proteins, gene expression, immunohistochemical techniques, as well as intracranial surgery. Altogether, these strategies have made it possible to study the role of numerous neurotransmitters involved in the phenomenon of abuse.