| Summary: | Orexins (hypocretins) are neuropeptides synthesized in neurons located in the lateral, perifornical and dorsomedial hypothalamus. These neurons innervate many regions in the brain and modulate multiple other neurotransmitter systems. As a result of these extensive projections and interactions orexins are involved in numerous functions, such as feeding behavior, neuroendocrine regulation, the sleep-wake cycle and reward-seeking. This review will summarise the literature to date which has evaluated a role of orexins in the behavioral effects of alcohol, with a focus on understanding the importance of this peptide and its potential as a potential therapeutic target for alcohol use disorders.
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