The aim of the present study was to synthesise and screen a set of novel nicotine hapten immunogens used for the treatment of nicotine dependence. In the screening process we studied the amount of antibodies generated and their selectivity, using ELISA techniques, and their effects on nicotine-induced dopamine release in the NAC(shell) of the rat, assessed by in vivo voltammetry. We conclude that even small changes such as the linker attachment on the nicotine molecule as well as the structure of the linker may greatly influence the selectivity of the antibodies and the central neurobiological effects of nicotine that are considered critical for its dependence producing properties.
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