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Neuroanatomic studies of addictions have focused on the amygdala and nucleus accumbens. This research group examined possible associations between cigarette smoking addiction, a major public health problem, and a lesion in another brain area, the insula. The insula, located beneath the temporal lobes and sylvian fissure, may play a role in representing bodily states during conscious emotional feelings. It is activated during feelings of disgust and by cues and urges associated with drugs of abuse.
The researchers identified 19 smokers who had acquired one-sided insular damage and 50 smokers with brain damage not involving the insula. Thirty-two patients (13 with insular damage) had quit smoking after the brain injury. Damage to the insula di…