"Autophagy is the housekeeper that takes out the trash - it's usually a good thing."
But the effect of cocaine meant vital components such as mitochondria, which produce energy for the cell, were also disposed of.
The study also found evidence of autophagy present in the brain cells of mice whose mothers had been given the drug while pregnant.
Following the findings, an experimental drug was used which effectively protected mouse nerve cells from a cocaine induced death.
The drug, known as CGP3466B, has been through clinical trials to treat Parkinson's and motor neurone disease.
However, far more research is required to ascertain whether or not the drug could also counteract the harmful effects of cocaine abuse in people, say the researchers.
- nzherald.co.nz