Researchers have therefore theorized that the section of the brain enabliing monogamy is present in the area of the brain possessing the receptors of oxytocin and vasopressin in prairie voles. Researchers have likewise theorized that the area of the brain containing vasopressin receptors in Montane voles is responsible for grooming habits. Current research is trying to create transgenic mice that will have the vole vasopressin receptor, presumably making them monogamous. One component of love that science may soon be able to explain fully is the heartache involved with a romantic breakup, which may be a type of withdrawal. In some addictions the nerves become satiated with certain signals.
Cocaine abuse produces an example of such a withdrawal.
Neurotransmitters carry the signal of a nerve impulse over the synapse or space between nerve cells. Cocaine blocks these neurotransmitters form being removed from the synapse. This effect produces a prolonged excited state. To compensate, the nerve cell receiving the neurotransmitter will reduce the number of receptors it has to prevent over stimulation. Once cocaine is removed, the nerves will still lack these receptors and be unable to sense the now reduced signal in the synapse.