Researchers have been able to prevent alcoholic rats from relapsing by injecting a protein called glial cell-derived neurotropic factor (GNDF) into their brains, HealthDay News reported June 10.

The protein was injected into the brain region called the Ventral Tegmental Area (VTA), which is thought to be involved in drug-seeking behavior. Researchers said the GNDF appeared to prevent craving for alcohol without inhibiting other pleasure-seeking behaviors.

The injection blocked craving for alcohol within 10 minutes, and the effect of GNDF lasted for at least three hours in the rat study.

GNDF also has been considered as a possible treatment for Parkinson's disease.

The study led by Dorit Ron of the University of California at San Francisco's Ernest Gallo Clinic and Research Center was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.