Brain Reward Cascade

The brain reward cascade, a chain reaction of interconnected neural events resulting from a pleasurable experience, motivates us to repeat the behavior. Pleasure and reinforcement primarily involve the neurotransmitter dopamine, triggered by activity in the brain’s ventral tegmental area/VTA (where dopamine is produced) and the nucleus accumbens (where dopamine is released). Neurotransmitters serotonin, GABA, and opioids can also modulate the reward cascade. Study of the reward cascade may have benefits for addiction, as addictive substances directly stimulate this pathway, leading to intense pleasure and a strong drive to repeat the behavior. Also see Hypo-Dopaminergic Trait and ADHD