Chronic Nicotine Effects on Memory and Nicotine Self-Administration: Age of Exposure is Key
The neurotoxic and neuropharmacologic effects of nicotine vary substantially with the age during which organisms are exposed. During early development nicotine causes neurotoxicity impacting processes of neurodevelopment. During adolescence, nicotine administration causes greater self-administration which can lay the foundation for tobacco addiction. During adulthood, nicotine is self-administered and causes considerable toxicity from tobacco addiction. In adults, nicotine also enhances memory function. This may provide therapeutic benefits which deserves further investigation. Nicotine has greatly differing toxicological and pharmacological effects depending on the age of the organism. Considering the age-effect function is key in determining the regulation and possible therapeutic use of nicotine and related nicotinic compounds.
