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Genetically Modified Flies Offer New Insights on Cocaine Addiction

6/2/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Scientists have crafted genetically modified fruit flies that willingly indulge in cocaine, paving the way for groundbreaking research on addiction. By turning off their bitter taste receptors, these flies quickly developed a taste for cocaine-infused sugar water. This innovative model holds promise for speeding up the search for effective treatments for the 1.5 million Americans grappling with cocaine use disorder.

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Story summary

Scientists have crafted genetically modified fruit flies that willingly indulge in cocaine, paving the way for groundbreaking research on addiction. By turning off their bitter taste receptors, these flies quickly developed a taste for cocaine-infused sugar water. This innovative model holds promise for speeding up the search for effective treatments for the 1.5 million Americans grappling with cocaine use disorder.