Multiple serotonin receptors: too many, not enough, or just the right number?

Direct and indirect mechanisms by which the gut microbiota influence host serotonin systems

Mounting evidence highlights the pivotal role of enteric microbes as a dynamic interface with the host. Indeed, the gut microbiota, located in the lumen of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, influence many essential physiological processes that are evident in both healthy and pathological states. A key signaling molecule throughout the body is serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT), which acts in the GI tract to regulate numerous gut functions including intestinal motility and secretion. The gut microbiota can modulate host 5-HT systems both directly and indirectly. Direct actions of gut microbes, evidenced by studies using germ-free animals or antibiotic administration, alter the expression of key 5-HT-related genes to promote 5-HT biosynthesis. Indirectly, the gut microbiota produce numerous microbial metabolites, whose actions can influence host serotonergic systems in a variety of ways. This review summarizes the current knowledge regarding mechanisms by which gut bacteria act to regulate host 5-HT and 5-HT-mediated gut functions, as well as implications for 5-HT in the microbiota-gut-brain axis.

5-HT Receptors and Temperature Homeostasis

The present review summarizes the data concerning the influence of serotonin (5-HT) receptors on body temperature in warm-blooded animals and on processes associated with its maintenance. This review includes the most important part of investigations from the first studies to the latest ones. The established results on the pharmacological activation of 5-HT1A, 5-HT3, 5-HT7 and 5-HT2 receptor types are discussed. Such activation of the first 3 type of receptors causes a decrease in body temperature, whereas the 5-HT2 activation causes its increase. Physiological mechanisms leading to changes in body temperature as a result of 5-HT receptors' activation are discussed. In case of 5-HT1A receptor, they include an inhibition of shivering and non-shivering thermogenesis, as well simultaneous increase of peripheral blood flow, i.e., the processes of heat production and heat loss. The physiological processes mediated by 5-HT2 receptor are opposite to those of the 5-HT1A receptor. Mechanisms of 5-HT3 and 5-HT7 receptor participation in these processes are yet to be studied in more detail. Some facts indicating that in natural conditions, without pharmacological impact, these 5-HT receptors are important links in the system of temperature homeostasis, are also discussed.

Effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor sertraline on hybrid striped bass predatory behavior and brain chemistry

Millions of pharmaceuticals are prescribed each year. Wastewater treatment plants fail to remove all pharmaceuticals from discharge leading to detectable concentrations entering aquatic ecosystems where the compounds can encounter nontarget organisms. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class of antidepressants interact with transporters in the brain and peripheral nervous system to change serotonin levels in the synapse. Sublethal exposure to SSRIs can impact fish feeding behaviors, which can have impacts on ecological fitness. We exposed hybrid striped bass (Morone saxatilis x Morone chrysops) to low, medium, and high concentrations of sertraline (4.5 ± 0.84 μg/L, 35.4 ± 2.18 μg/L, and 96.8 ± 6.4 μg/L) over six days with six additional recovery days. Concentrations were chosen to compare results with a mixture study previously completed in our lab. Every three days we tracked how long each bass took to consume four fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) and conducted destructive sampling to obtain brain and plasma samples. Brain and plasma samples were analyzed for sertraline levels and we calculated whole brain serotonin levels. During the exposure period, bass showed an increased time to capture prey, but time to capture prey returned to control levels during the six-day recovery period. Sertraline was detected in brain and plasma during the duration of the experiment, though not always in a dose-dependent fashion. While we demonstrated a relationship between time to capture prey and decrease whole brain serotonin levels, the decrease in time to capture prey during the recovery period suggests the serotonin levels in the brain are not solely responsible for the outward behavioral expression observed.

Frameworking memory and serotonergic markers

The evidence for neural markers and memory is continuously being revised, and as evidence continues to accumulate, herein, we frame earlier and new evidence. Hence, in this work, the aim is to provide an appropriate conceptual framework of serotonergic markers associated with neural activity and memory. Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT]) has multiple pharmacological tools, well-characterized downstream signaling in mammals’ species, and established 5-HT neural markers showing new insights about memory functions and dysfunctions, including receptors (5-HT1A/1B/1D, 5-HT2A/2B/2C, and 5-HT3-7), transporter (serotonin transporter [SERT]) and volume transmission present in brain areas involved in memory. Bidirectional influence occurs between 5-HT markers and memory/amnesia. A growing number of researchers report that memory, amnesia, or forgetting modifies neural markers. Diverse approaches support the translatability of using neural markers and cerebral functions/dysfunctions, including memory formation and amnesia. At least, 5-HT1A, 5-HT4, 5-HT6, and 5-HT7receptors and SERT seem to be useful neural markers and therapeutic targets. Hence, several mechanisms cooperate to achieve synaptic plasticity or memory, including changes in the expression of neurotransmitter receptors and transporters.

An AOP analysis of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for fish

Pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) are found in measureable quantities within the aquatic environment. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants are one class of pharmaceutical compound that has received a lot of attention. Consistent with most PPCPs, the pharmacokinetics and physiological impacts of SSRI treatment have been well-studied in small mammals and humans and this, combined with the evolutionary conservation of the serotonergic system across vertebrates, allows for the read-across of known SSRI effects in mammals to potential SSRI impacts on aquatic organisms. Using an Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) framework, this review examines the similarities and differences between the mammalian and teleost fish SSRI target, the serotonin transporter (SERT; SLC6A4), and the downstream impacts of elevated extracellular serotonin (5-HT; 5-hydroxytryptamine), the consequence of SERT inhibition, on organ systems and physiological processes within teleost fish. This review also intends to reveal potentially understudied endpoints for SSRI toxicity based on what is known to be controlled by 5-HT in fish.

The involvement of medial septum 5-HT1 and 5-HT2 receptors on ACPA-induced memory consolidation deficit: possible role of TRPC3, TRPC6 and TRPV2

The present study evaluates the roles of serotonergic receptors of the medial septum on amnesia induced by arachidonylcyclopropylamide (ACPA; as selective cannabinoid CB1 receptor agonist) in adult male Wistar rats. Cannulae were implanted in the medial septum of the brain of the rats. The animals were trained in a passive avoidance learning apparatus, and were tested 24 hours after training for step-through latency. Results indicated that post-training medial septum administration of CP94253 (5-HT1B/1D receptor agonist) and cinancerine (as 5-HT2 receptor antagonist) reduced the step-through latency showing an amnesic response, while GR127935 (5-HT1B/1D receptor antagonist) and αm5htm (as 5-HT2A/2B/2D receptor agonist) did not alter memory consolidation by themselves. On continuing the test, the results showed that CP94253 increased and GR127935 did not alter ACPA (0.02 µg/rat)-induced memory impairment, respectively. Other data indicated that αm5htm induced a modulatory effect, while cinancerine restored ACPA-induced amnesia. Using SKF-96365 (inhibitor of transient receptor potential TRPC3/6 and TRPV2 channels) demonstrated that TRPC3, TRPC3 and TRPV2 channels have a significant role, according to our results.

Serotonin mediation of early memory formation via 5-HT2B receptor-induced glycogenolysis in the day-old chick

Investigation of the effects of serotonin on memory formation in the chick revealed an action on at least two 5-HT receptors. Serotonin injected intracerebrally produced a biphasic effect on memory consolidation with enhancement at low doses and inhibition at higher doses. The non-selective 5-HT receptor antagonist methiothepin and the selective 5-HT2B/C receptor antagonist SB221284 both inhibited memory, suggesting actions of serotonin on at least two different receptor subtypes. The 5-HT2B/C and astrocyte-specific 5-HT receptor agonist, fluoxetine and paroxetine, enhanced memory and the effect was attributed to glycogenolysis. Inhibition of glycogenolysis with a low dose of DAB (1,4-dideoxy-1,4-imino-D-arabinitol) prevented both serotonin and fluoxetine from enhancing memory during short-term memory but not during intermediate memory. The role of serotonin on the 5-HT2B/C receptor appears to involve glycogen breakdown in astrocytes during short-term memory, whereas other published evidence attributes the second period of glycogenolysis to noradrenaline.

3D QSAR based design of novel oxindole derivative as 5HT7 inhibitors

To understand the structural requirements of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5HT7) receptor inhibitors and to design new ligands against 5HT7 receptor with enhanced inhibitory potency, a three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship study with comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) and comparative molecular similarity indices analysis (CoMSIA) for a data set of 56 molecules consisting of oxindole, tetrahydronaphthalene, aryl ketone substituted arylpiperazinealkylamide derivatives was performed. Derived model showed good statistical reliability in terms of predicting 5HT7 inhibitory activity of the molecules, based on molecular property fields like steric, electrostatic, hydrophobic, hydrogen bond donor and hydrogen bond acceptor fields. This is evident from statistical parameters like conventional r2 and a cross validated (q2) values of 0.985, 0.743 for CoMFA and 0.970, 0.608 for CoMSIA, respectively. Predictive ability of the models to determine 5HT7 antagonistic activity is validated using a test set of 16 molecules that were not included in the training set. Predictive r2 obtained for the test set was 0.560 and 0.619 for CoMFA and CoMSIA, respectively. Steric, electrostatic fields majorly contributed toward activity which forms the basis for design of new molecules. Absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination (ADME) calculation using QikProp 2.5 (Schrodinger 2010, Portland, OR) reveals that the molecules confer to Lipinski's rule of five in majority of the cases.

RU486 blocks effects of allopregnanolone on the response to restraint stress

These experiments were designed to provide information about the potential involvement of progesterone receptors in the ability of allopregnanolone (3α-hydroxy-5α-pregnan-20-one) to reduce the lordosis-inhibiting effects of restraint stress. Ovariectomized Fischer rats were hormonally primed with 10 μg estradiol benzoate and 4 mg/kg allopregnanolone or vehicle. One hour before allopregnanolone, rats were injected with the progesterone receptor antagonist, RU486 (11β-(4-dimethylamino)phenyl-17β-hydroxy-17-(1-propynyl)estra-4,9-dien-3-one), or vehicle. Four hours after allopregnanolone or vehicle, sexual behavior was examined before and after a 5-min restraint stress. Lordosis behavior of rats primed only with estradiol benzoate declined after the 5 min of restraint while allopregnanolone prevented this decline. RU486 attenuated the ability of allopregnanolone to prevent the restraint-induced decline in lordosis behavior. These findings are consistent with earlier suggestions that progesterone receptors are involved in allopregnanolone's ability to reduce the effects of restraint stress.

Disturbed development of the enteric nervous system after in utero exposure of selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants. Part 1: Literature review

The increase in selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor (SSRI) use during pregnancy, questions concerning abnormal development of the enteric nervous system (ENS), increase in laxative use in children and the association of fluoxetine with infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS) gave rise to this pharmacological literature review. The role of 5-HT and the NE uptake in ontogeny of the ENS and the effects SSRIs and TCAs might have on the development of the ENS were investigated. The literature study showed that SSRIs may influence the development of the ENS in two ways. Blockage of the serotonin re-uptake transporter (SERT) during foetal development could influence migration, differentiation and survival of cells. This could lead to abnormal development in the first trimester of pregnancy. The other way is that 5-HT seems to be a growth factor in the primitive ENS. This growth factor like action is mediated through the 5-HT(2B) receptor and stimulation of this receptor by SSRIs influences the fate of late-developing enteric neurons. This could lead to abnormal development in the second and third trimester. TCAs could influence the development of the ENS, besides through inhibition of the SERT, through inhibition of the norepinephrine transporter (NET). Expression of the NET seems to be essential for a full development of enteric neurons and especially for serotonergic neurons. In addition the NET was detected early in ontogeny and precedes neuronal differentiation, which suggests that TCAs might influence development of the ENS when exposed early in pregnancy. The insights of this study gave rise to hypotheses which will be tested in an epidemiological cohort study.

The serotonin subtype 1A receptor regulates cortisol secretion in the Gulf toadfish, Opsanus beta

It is well established that serotonin (5-HT; 5-hydroxytryptamine) plays a role in mammalian regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis via the 5-HT receptor subtype 1A (5-HT(1A)). To date, there has not been a comprehensive investigation of the molecular, pharmacological and physiological aspects of the 5-HT(1A) receptor and its role in the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-interrenal (HPI) axis in teleost fish. The 5-HT(1A) receptor of the Gulf toadfish (Opsanus beta) was cloned and sequenced, showing 67.5% amino acid similarity to the human homologue. The 5-HT(1A) receptor was distributed throughout the brain, with the whole brain containing significantly higher levels of 5-HT(1A) mRNA compared to all other tissues and the midbrain/diencephalon region containing significantly higher levels of transcript than any other brain region. Substantial levels of transcript were also found in the pituitary, while very low levels were in the kidney that contains the interrenal cells. Xenopus oocytes injected with toadfish 5-HT(1A) receptor cRNA displayed significantly higher binding of [(3)H]5-HT that was abolished by the mammalian 5-HT(1A) receptor agonist, 8-OH-DPAT, indicating a conserved binding site of the toadfish 5-HT(1A) receptor and a high specificity for the agonist. Supporting this, binding of [(3)H]5-HT was not affected by the mammalian 5-HT(1B) receptor agonist, 5-nonyloxytryptamine, the 5-HT(7) receptor antagonist, SB269970, or the 5-HT(2) receptor agonist, alpha-methylserotonin. Confirming these molecular and pharmacological findings, intravenous injection of 8-OH-DPAT stimulated the HPI axis to cause a 2-fold increase in circulating levels of cortisol. The present study of the 5-HT(1A) receptor in a single teleost species illustrates the high conservation of this 5-HT receptor amongst vertebrates.

Conceptualizing the role of estrogens and serotonin in the development and maintenance of bulimia nervosa

Serotonergic dysregulation is thought to underlie much of the pathology in bulimia nervosa (BN). The purpose of this review is to expand the serotonergic model by incorporating specific and nonspecific contributions of estrogens to the development and maintenance of bulimic pathology in order to guide research from molecular genetics to novel therapeutics for BN. Special emphasis is given to the organizing theory of general brain arousal which allows for integration of specific and nonspecific effects of these systems on behavioral endpoints such as binge eating or purging as well as arousal states such as fear, novelty seeking, or sex. Regulation of the serotonergic system by estrogens is explored, and genetic, epigenetic, and environmental estrogen effects on bulimic pathology and risk factors are discussed. Genetic and neuroscientific research support this two-system conceptualization of BN with both contributions to the developmental and maintenance of the disorder. Implications of an estrogenic-serotonergic model of BN are discussed as well as guidelines and suggestions for future research and novel therapeutic targets.

Benzimidazole derivatives as new serotonin 5-HT6 receptor antagonists. Molecular mechanisms of receptor inactivation

On the basis of our previously described pharmacophore model for serotonin 5-HT(6) receptor (5-HT(6)R) antagonists, we have designed, synthesized, and pharmacologically characterized a series of benzimidazole derivatives 1-20 that represent a new family of potent antagonists at the human 5-HT(6)R. Site-directed mutagenesis and a beta(2)-adrenoceptor-based homology model of the 5-HT(6)R were used to predict the mode of binding of antagonist SB-258585 and the new synthesized ligands. Substitution of W6.48, F6.52, or N6.55 by Ala fully impedes compound 4 to block 5-HT-induced activation. Thus, we propose that D3.32 in TM 3 anchors the protonated piperazine ring, the benzimidazole ring expands parallel to EL 2 to hydrogen bond N6.55 in TM 6, and the aromatic ring is placed between TMs 3 and 5 in CH(2)-containing compounds and between TMs 3 and 6 in CO-containing compounds. This combined experimental and computational study has permitted to propose the molecular mechanisms by which the new benzimidazole derivatives act as 5-HT(6)R antagonists.

The response of neurons in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis to serotonin: implications for anxiety

Substantial evidence has suggested that the activity of the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) mediates many forms of anxiety-like behavior in human and non-human animals. These data have led many investigators to suggest that abnormal processing within this nucleus may underlie anxiety disorders in humans, and effective anxiety treatments may restore normal BNST functioning. Currently some of the most effective treatments for anxiety disorders are drugs that modulate serotonin (5-HT) systems, and several decades of research have suggested that the activation of 5-HT can modulate anxiety-like behavior. Despite these facts, relatively few studies have examined how activity within the BNST is modulated by 5-HT. Here we review our own investigations using in vitro whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiological methods on brain sections containing the BNST to determine the response of BNST neurons to exogenous 5-HT application. Our data suggest that the response of BNST neurons to 5-HT is complex, displaying both inhibitory and excitatory components, which are mediated by 5-HT(1A), 5-HT(2A), 5-HT(2C) and 5-HT(7) receptors. Moreover, we have shown that the selective activation of the inhibitory response to 5-HT reduces anxiety-like behavior, and we describe data suggesting that the activation of the excitatory response to 5-HT may be anxiogenic. We propose that in the normal state, the function of 5-HT is to dampen activity within the BNST (and consequent anxiety-like behavior) during exposure to threatening stimuli; however, we suggest that changes in the balance of the function of BNST 5-HT receptor subtypes could alter the response of BNST neurons to favor excitation and produce a pathological state of increased anxiety.

Bi-directional modulation of bed nucleus of stria terminalis neurons by 5-HT: molecular expression and functional properties of excitatory 5-HT receptor subtypes

Activation of neurons in the anterolateral bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST(ALG)) plays an important role in mediating the behavioral response to stressful and anxiogenic stimuli. Application of 5-HT elicits complex postsynaptic responses in BNST(ALG) neurons, which includes (1) membrane hyperpolarization (5-HT(Hyp)), (2) hyperpolarization followed by depolarization (5-HT(Hyp-Dep)), (3) depolarization (5-HT(Dep)) or (4) no response (5-HT(NR)). We have shown that the inhibitory response is mediated by activation of postsynaptic 5-HT(1A) receptors. Here, we used a combination of in vitro whole-cell patch-clamp recording and single cell reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to determine the pharmacological properties and molecular profile of 5-HT receptor subtypes mediating the excitatory response to 5-HT in BNST(ALG) neurons. We show that the depolarizing component of both the 5-HT(Hyp/Dep) and the 5-HT(Dep) response was mediated by activation of 5-HT(2A), 5-HT(2C) and/or 5-HT(7) receptors. Single cell RT-PCR data revealed that 5-HT(7) receptors (46%) and 5-HT(1A) receptors (41%) are the most prevalent receptor subtypes expressed in BNST(ALG) neurons. Moreover, 5-HT receptor subtypes are differentially expressed in type I-III BNST(ALG) neurons. Hence, 5-HT(2C) receptors are almost exclusively expressed by type III neurons, whereas 5-HT(7) receptors are expressed by type I and II neurons, but not type III neurons. Conversely, 5-HT(2A) receptors are found predominantly in type II neurons. Finally, bi-directional modulation of individual neurons occurs only in type I and II neurons. Significantly the distribution of 5-HT receptor subtypes in BNST(ALG) neurons predicted the observed expression pattern of 5-HT responses determined pharmacologically. Together, these results suggest that 5-HT can differentially modulate the excitability of type I-III neurons, and further suggest that bi-directional modulation of BNST(ALG) neurons occurs primarily through an interplay between 5-HT(1A) and 5-HT(7) receptors. Hence, modulation of 5-HT(7) receptor activity in the BNST(ALG) may offer a novel avenue for the design of anxiolytic medications.

Classification of 5-HT(1A) receptor ligands on the basis of their binding affinities by using PSO-Adaboost-SVM

In the present work, the support vector machine (SVM) and Adaboost-SVM have been used to develop a classification model as a potential screening mechanism for a novel series of 5-HT_1A selective ligands. Each compound is represented by calculated structural descriptors that encode topological features. The particle swarm optimization (PSO) and the stepwise multiple linear regression (Stepwise-MLR) methods have been used to search descriptor space and select the descriptors which are responsible for the inhibitory activity of these compounds. The model containing seven descriptors found by Adaboost-SVM, has showed better predictive capability than the other models. The total accuracy in prediction for the training and test set is 100.0% and 95.0% for PSO-Adaboost-SVM, 99.1% and 92.5% for PSO-SVM, 99.1% and 82.5% for Stepwise-MLR-Adaboost-SVM, 99.1% and 77.5% for Stepwise-MLR-SVM, respectively. The results indicate that Adaboost-SVM can be used as a useful modeling tool for QSAR studies.

Antidepressant-like effects of curcumin on serotonergic receptor-coupled AC-cAMP pathway in chronic unpredictable mild stress of rats

Serotonergic receptors take their physiologic effects by affecting adenylyl cyclase (AC) catalytic activity and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) concentration. AC-cAMP second messenger pathway has been recently suggested to play an important role in depression. Therefore, the compound that regulates the signal pathway may have potential as antidepressant. Curcumin is the main component of Curcuma longa L, a well-known indigenous herb with comprehensive bioactivities. In the present study, we investigated the effects of chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) and curcumin on behaviours and serotonergic receptor-coupled AC-cAMP signal pathway in rats. Curcumin produced beneficial effects on the stressed rats by effectively improving CUMS-induced low sucrose consumption and reducing serum corticosterone levels in rats. Moreover, curcumin enhanced AC activity and cAMP levels in platelet and various brain regions, and up-regulated mRNA expressions of AC subtypes AC 2, AC 8 and cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) in the hippocampus, cortex and hypothalamus of the CUMS rats. Curcumin also attenuated CUMS-induced reductions of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) levels and high expressions of central 5-HT(1A/1B/7) receptors in rats. These results suggested that the potent antidepressant property of curcumin might be attributed to its improvement of AC-cAMP pathway as well as CREB via suppressing central 5-HT(1A/1B/7) receptors in the CUMS rats. Our findings provided a basis for examining the interaction of serotonergic receptors and AC-cAMP pathway in depression and curcumin treatment.

Differential effects of ovarian steroids and raloxifene on serotonin 1A and 2C receptor protein expression in macaques

To further understand the role of ovarian hormones in the function of the serotonin neural system, we investigated the effects of estradiol (E), progesterone (P), and raloxifene on 5HT 1A and 2C receptor protein expression in the dorsal raphe region using Western blot analysis. Adult rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) were ovariectomized (Ovx) and implanted with Silastic capsules containing E or P. In the first paradigm, animals that had been Ovx for 6-16 months were treated for 1 month with E (El) or E + P (EP1) and compared to animals that were untreated and Ovx for 5 months (n = 4 per group). In the second paradigm, comparisons were made between animals that were Ovx and untreated for 5 months, or Ovx and immediately implanted with Silastic capsules containing E or E + P for 5 months (E5, EP5), or administered raloxifene in the diet for 5 months (Ral5) (n = 4 per group). The dorsal raphe region was harvested, homogenized and a crude membrane fraction was obtained for examination of receptor proteins. In the first paradigm, 5HT1A receptor protein expression was significantly lower in E1 and EPI treatment groups compared to the Ovx-control group (ANOVA P = 0.01; posthoc P < 0.03), but 5HT2C receptor expression was unaffected by 1 month of E or EP treatment. In the second paradigm, there was no difference in 5HT1A receptor expression between the Ovx-control group and the E5 group, but 5HT1A receptor expression was significantly suppressed in the EP5 group (ANOVA P = 0.04; posthoc P < 0.05). In addition, 5HT2C expression increased in the E5 treatment group relative to the Ovx-control group. Addition of P to the E5 regimen prevented the E5-induced increase in 5HT2C receptor expression and significantly reduced 5HT2C receptor expression to a level below that observed in the Ovx-control group (ANOVA P = 0.001; posthoc P < 0.05). Thus, 5HT1A receptor may lose sensitivity to the suppressive effect of E after 5 months, whereas the 5HT2C receptor increases. However, addition of P in the EP5 regimen maintains the regulatory effects observed with 1 month of treatment. 5HT1A receptor protein levels were higher with raloxifene treatment than in Ovx-control animals (P < 0.01), suggesting that raloxifene may antagonize residual E in Ovx animals.

The central amygdala regulates sodium intake in sodium-depleted rats: Role of 5-HT3 and 5-HT2C receptors

In the present paper, we have evaluated the participation of 5-HT(3) and 5-HT(2C) receptors in the central amygdala (CeA) in the regulation of water and salt intake in sodium-depleted rats. m-CPBG-induced pharmacological activation of 5-HT(3) receptors located in the CeA resulted in a significant reduction in salt intake in sodium-depleted rats. This antinatriorexic effect of m-CPBG was reverted by pretreatment with the selective 5-HT(3) receptor antagonist ondansetron. The injection of ondansetron alone into the CeA had no effect on sodium-depleted and normonatremic rats. Conversely, pharmacological stimulation of 5-HT(2C) receptors located in the central amygdala by the selective 5-HT(2C) receptor agonist m-CPP failed to modify salt intake in sodium-depleted rats. Additionally, the administration of a selective 5-HT(2C) receptor blocker, SDZ SER 082, failed to modify salt intake in rats submitted to sodium depletion. These results lead to the conclusion that the pharmacological activation of 5-HT(3) receptors located within the CeA inhibits salt intake in sodium-depleted rats and that 5-HT(2C) receptors located within the CeA appear to be dissociated from the salt intake control mechanisms operating in the central amygdala.

Hypothalamic expression of serotonin 1A, 2A and 2C receptor and GAD67 mRNA in female cynomolgus monkeys with different sensitivity to stress

Like women, female cynomolgus monkeys show differential sensitivity to stress-induced reproductive dysfunction. A combined social and metabolic stress (mild diet+moderate exercise+relocation) will rapidly induce anovulation in a third of female cynomolgus monkeys (stress-sensitive; SS); a third will ovulate once and then become anovulatory (medium stress-resilient; MSR) and a third are highly stress-resilient (HSR) and exhibit normal menstrual cycles through two stressed menstrual cycles. In a non-stressed menstrual cycle, SS animals have lower levels of estrogen and progesterone, lower activity of the serotonin system and lower expression of genes related to the serotonin system in the dorsal raphe nucleus. In this study, we examined the expression of 5HT1A, 5HT2A, 5HT2C receptors and GAD67 in the hypothalamus of SS, HSR and MSR monkeys using in situ hybridization. SS monkeys exhibited higher expression of 5HT2A mRNA in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN), higher expression of 5HT2C and GAD67 in the infundibulum, as well as higher expression of GAD67 in the posterior hypothalamus (PH), compared with HSR monkeys. However, the expression of 5HT1A mRNA in the ventromedial nucleus (VMN) was not different between groups. We speculate that the serotonin and GABA systems may be altered in the stress-response and reproductive-related circuits of SS monkeys, and may be participating in altering the sensitivity of the reproductive system to stress in these individuals.

Effect of the 5-HT receptor agonist DOI on female rat sexual behavior

INTRODUCTION

Female rats display a repertoire of behaviors during a sexual encounter with a male, including sexually receptive (the lordosis response) and proceptive (darts and hops, and ear wigglings) behaviors.

AIM

We investigated the effects of subcutaneous injection of the 5-HT(2A/2C) receptor agonist (2,5-dimethoxy-4-idophenyl)-2-aminopropane hydrochloride (DOI) on sexual behaviors of ovariectomized female rat hormonally supplemented with estradiol benzoate (10 microg) and progesterone (250 microg).

METHODS

Both female and male sexual behaviors were observed for 10 minutes (pretest). Then females were injected with the treatment and after a 10-minute delay replaced with the same male for a 30-minute mating test (posttreatment period).

RESULTS

DOI (0.5 and 1 mg/kg) significantly increased the number of darts and hops/mounts. In contrast, no significant differences in ear wigglings/mounts were observed. In addition, DOI failed to modify sexual receptivity.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that 5-HT(2A/2C) receptors are important in the regulation of female proceptivity.

Role of 5-HT3 and 5-HT2C receptors located within the medial amygdala in the control of salt intake in sodium-depleted rats

In the present study, we investigated the role of 5-HT(3) and 5-HT(2C) receptors located within the medial amygdala (MeA) in the control of water and salt intake in sodium-depleted rats. Pharmacological activation of 5-HT(3) receptors located in the medial amygdala by the selective 5-HT(3) receptor agonist m-CPBG significantly reduced salt intake in sodium-depleted rats, an effect that is reverted by pretreatment with the selective 5-HT(3) receptor antagonist ondansetron. In addition, the injection of ondansetron alone into the medial amygdala had no effect on salt intake in sodium-depleted and in sodium-repleted rats. Pharmacological stimulation of 5-HT(2C) receptors located in the medial amygdala by the selective 5-HT(2C) receptor agonist m-CPP failed to modify salt intake in sodium-depleted rats, whereas the blockade of these receptors by the selective 5-HT(2C) receptor antagonist SDZ SER 082 significantly reduced salt intake in this same group of animals. These results lead to the conclusion that the pharmacological activation of 5-HT(3) receptors located within the MeA inhibits salt intake in sodium-depleted rats and that, in this same brain region, the functional integrity of 5-HT(2C) receptors is required to achieve the full expression of sodium appetite in sodium-depleted rats.

Fluoxetine disrupts food intake and estrous cyclicity in Fischer female rats

Adult, regularly cycling female Fischer rats were injected daily with 10 mg/kg fluoxetine for 12-23 days. In the first experiment, body weight and vaginal smears were monitored daily. Fluoxetine treatment reduced body weight within the first 24 h of treatment. Fluoxetine treatment also elongated the estrous cycle, reduced blood levels of progesterone, and eliminated lordosis behavior. In the second experiment, body weight and food intake were examined and a pair-fed group was included to determine if fluoxetine-induced anorexia contributed to the disturbance of the estrous cycle. In pair-fed rats, effects similar to fluoxetine treatment were present. These results lead to the suggestion that fluoxetine's anorectic properties could disrupt the female's normal endocrine cyclicity and that this disruption could be relevant to the reduction in sexual behavior and motivation. However, when the duration of fluoxetine treatment was extended beyond 16 to 17 days, fluoxetine-treated female rats reinitiated vaginal cyclicity and showed evidence of normal sexual receptivity. In contrast, the estrous cycles of their pair-fed counterparts remained disrupted. Thus, restricted food intake appears to contribute to the disruption of the estrous cycle and elimination of sexual receptivity during fluoxetine treatment. However, compensatory changes in the serotonergic system that are associated with chronic fluoxetine administration may contribute to the gradual recovery of estrous cyclicity and sexual receptivity of the fluoxetine-treated animals.

A Three-Dimensional Pharmacophore Model for 5-Hydroxytryptamine6 (5-HT6) Receptor Antagonists

Forty-five structurally diverse 5-hydroxytryptamine(6) receptor (5-HT(6)R) antagonists were selected to develop a 3D pharmacophore model with the Catalyst software. The structural features for antagonism at this receptor are a positive ionizable atom interacting with Asp(3.32), a hydrogen bond acceptor group interacting with Ser(5.43) and Asn(6.55), a hydrophobic site interacting with residues in a hydrophobic pocket between transmembranes 3, 4, and 5, and an aromatic-ring hydrophobic site interacting with Phe(6.52).

Synthesis and in vitro binding of N-phenyl piperazine analogs as potential dopamine D3 receptor ligands

A series of N-(2-methoxyphenyl)piperazine and N-(2,3-dichlorophenyl)piperazine analogs were prepared and their affinities for dopamine D(2), D(3), and D(4) receptors were measured in vitro. Binding studies were also conducted to determine if the compounds bound to sigma (sigma(1) and sigma(2)) and serotonin (5-HT(1A), 5-HT(2A), 5-HT(2B), 5-HT(2C), 5-HT(3), 5-HT(4), 5-HT(5), 5-HT(6), and 5-HT(7)) receptors. The results of the current study revealed a number of compounds (12b, 12c, 12e, and 12g) having a high affinity for D(3) (K(i) at D(3) receptors ranging from 0.3 to 0.9 nM) versus D(2) (K(i) at D(2) receptors ranging from 40 to 53 nM) receptors and a log P value indicating that they should readily cross the blood brain barrier (log P = 2.6-3.5). All of the compounds evaluated in this study had a high affinity for serotonin 5-HT(1A) receptors. These compounds may be useful as probes for studying the behavioral pharmacology of the dopamine D(3) receptor, as well as lead compounds for the development of radiotracers for studying D(3) receptor regulation in vivo with the functional imaging technique, positron emission tomography.

Benzimidazole derivatives. Part 5: design and synthesis of new benzimidazole-arylpiperazine derivatives acting as mixed 5-HT1A/5-HT3 ligands

A series of new mixed benzimidazole-arylpiperazine derivatives were designed by incorporating in general structure III the pharmacophoric elements of 5-HT(1A) and 5-HT(3) receptors. Compounds 1-11 were synthesized and evaluated for binding affinity at both serotoninergic receptors, all of them exhibiting high 5-HT(3)R affinity (K(i)=10-62nM), and derivatives with an o-alkoxy group in the arylpiperazine ring showing nanomolar affinity for the 5-HT(1A)R (K(i)=18-150nM). Additionally, all the synthesized compounds were selective over alpha(1)-adrenergic and dopamine D(2) receptors (K(i)>1000-10,000nM). Compound 3 was selected for further pharmacological characterization due to its interesting binding profile as mixed 5-HT(1A)/5-HT(3) ligand with high affinity for both receptors (5-HT(1A): K(i)=18.0nM, 5-HT(3): K(i)=27.2nM). In vitro and in vivo findings suggest that this compound acts as a partial agonist at 5-HT(1A)Rs and as a 5-HT(3)R antagonist. This novel mixed 5-HT(1A)/5-HT(3) ligand was also effective in preventing the cognitive deficits induced by muscarinic receptor blockade in a passive avoidance learning test, suggesting a potential interest in the treatment of cognitive dysfunction.

Tamoxifen fails to affect central serotonergic tone but increases indices of anxiety in female rhesus macaques

The selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), tamoxifen, effectively slows the progression of estrogen-positive breast cancer and aids in the prevention of cancer in at-risk women. Tamoxifen is well characterized with regards to its effects on breast cancer, but its effects on other estrogen-related systems, particularly neural circuits regulating brain function and mood, are poorly understood. Using ovariectomized rhesus monkeys, we examined the effects of tamoxifen, with and without estrogen replacement therapy (ERT), on social behavior and central serotonin (5HT) systems thought to influence these behaviors. Relative to placebo treatments, estrogen treatment increased serotonergic tone, based on response in prolactin and cortisol to fenfluramine, a 5HT releasing agent. Tamoxifen neither blocked nor enhanced this effect, indicating it to be neither an antagonist nor an agonist on serotonergic activity. In contrast, CSF measures of the 5HT metabolite, 5HIAA, were not significantly affected by treatment. Tamoxifen-treated animals showed increases in measures of anxiety, compared with ERT-treated animals, suggesting that this SERM may be anxiogenic. Co-treatment with estrogen attenuated the anxiogenic properties of tamoxifen. These data show that tamoxifen administration increased anxiety levels, but the affect was not associated with differences in central levels of the serotonin tone.

Synthesis and Structure−Activity Relationships of a New Model of Arylpiperazines. 8.1Computational Simulation of Ligand−Receptor Interaction of 5-HT1AR Agonists with Selectivity over α1-Adrenoceptors

We have designed and synthesized a new series of arylpiperazines V exhibiting high 5-HT(1A)R affinity and selectivity over alpha(1)-adrenoceptors. The new selective 5-HT(1A)R ligands contain a hydantoin (m = 0) or diketopiperazine (m = 1) moiety and an arylpiperazine moiety separated by one methylene unit (n = 1). The aryl substituent of the piperazine moiety (Ar) consists of different benzofused rings mimicking the favorable voluminous substituents at ortho and meta positions predicted by 3D-QSAR analysis in the previously reported series I. In particular, (S)-2-[[4-(naphth-1-yl)piperazin-1-yl]methyl]-1,4-dioxoperhydropyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrazine [(S)-9, CSP-2503] (5-HT(1A), K(i) = 4.1 nM; alpha(1), K(i) > 1000 nM) has been pharmacologically characterized as a 5-HT(1A)R agonist at somatodendritic and postsynaptic sites, endowed with anxiolytic properties. Ligand (S)-9 is predicted, in computer simulations, to bind Asp(3.32) in TMH 3, Thr(5.39) and Ser(5.42) in TMH 5, and Trp(6.48) in TMH 6. We propose that agonists modify, by means of an explicit hydrogen bond, the conformation of Trp(6.48) from pointing toward TMH 7, in the inactive gauche+ conformation, to pointing toward the ligand binding site, in the active trans conformation.

Behavioural and neurochemical effects induced by chronic mild stress applied to two different rat strains

Chronic mild stress (CMS) has been reported to induce an anhedonic-like state in rats that resembles some of the symptoms of endogenous depression in humans. In the present study, CMS-induced behavioural responses along with neurochemical alterations in dopaminergic and serotonergic function in prefrontal cortex, striatum, hypothalamus and hippocampus were examined following treatment with imipramine in Wistar and Sprague-Dawley rats. The CMS procedure lasted 7 weeks in total. Once per week, a 1-h preference test for 1% sucrose solution was conducted. Treatment with imipramine (10mg/kg i.p., once daily) commenced after experimental week 3. CMS induced significant reductions in absolute and relative sucrose intake and sucrose preference in both rat strains but their temporal pattern was different especially during the weeks 0-3. These effects were reversed by IMI. An increase in the dopaminergic and a decrease in the serotonergic activity were observed in the prefrontal cortex in both rat strains following CMS. A decrease in the striatal dopaminergic activity and an increased hippocampal serotonergic activity were also seen in both rat strains following CMS. In Wistar rats, dopaminergic and serotonergic activities were enhanced in the hypothalamus whereas in Sprague-Dawley rats no such stress-induced changes were observed. Notably, the clear decrease in sucrose consumption observed in stressed Wistar rats could be directly associated with a respective increase in the dopaminergic hypothalamic activity. Chronic treatment with imipramine normalized all neurochemical alterations induced by CMS. Our results suggest that a specific and regionally differentiated serotonin-dopamine interaction is directly related to the observed stress-induced anhedonia.

Receptor-Based 3D QSAR Analysis of Serotonin 5-HT1D Receptor Agonists

A three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship study (3D QSAR) has been successfully applied to explain the binding affinities for the serotonin 5-HT1D receptor of a triptan series. The paper describes the development of a receptor-based 3D QSAR model of some known agonists and recently developed triptans on the 5-HT1D serotonergic receptor, showing a significant correlation between predicted and experimentally measured binding affinity (pIC50). The pIC50 values of these agonists are in the range from 5.40 to 9.50. The ligand alignment obtained from dynamic simulations was taken as basis for a 3D QSAR analysis applying the GRID/GOLPE program. 3D QSAR analysis of the ligands resulted in a model of high quality (r2 = 0.9895, q2LOO = 0.7854). This is an excellent result and proves both the validity of the proposed pharmacophore and the predictive quality of the 3D QSAR model for the triptan series of serotonin 5-HT1D receptor agonists.

The novel analgesic and high-efficacy 5-HT1A receptor agonist F 13640 inhibits nociceptive responses, wind-up, and after-discharges in spinal neurons and withdrawal reflexes

Evidence shows that serotonin (5-HT) is involved in the transmission of nociception in the central nervous system. Using a new electrophysiological method of simultaneous recordings in rats we examined the actions of the novel analgesic and high-efficacy 5-HT1A receptor agonist F 13640 as well as those of the opioid receptor agonist fentanyl on simultaneously evoked responses of spinal dorsal horn (DH) wide-dynamic range (WDR) neurons and spinal withdrawal reflexes. Spinal withdrawal reflexes were studied by assessing the activity of single motor units (SMUs) electromyographically (EMG). Like that of 0.02 mg/kg fentanyl, intraperitoneal injection of 0.31 mg/kg of F 13640 markedly inhibited nociceptive pinch-evoked responses as well as C-fiber-mediated late responses including wind-up of both DH WDR neurons and SMUs to suprathreshold (1.5 x T) repeated (3 Hz) electrical stimulation. Specifically, in contrast to no significant depressive effects by fentanyl on 20 Hz electrically evoked after-discharge of DH WDR neurons, the after-discharges of DH WDR neurons and SMUs were significantly inhibited by F 13640 (P < 0.05 and P < 0.001, respectively). The inhibitory effects of F 13640 and fentanyl on responses of DH WDR neurons and SMUs were reversed by the specific antagonists WAY 100635 and naloxone, respectively, further indicating that this 5-HT1A receptor-modulated anti-nociception is mu-opioid receptor independent. For the first time, 5-HT1A receptors are clearly proved to be involved in the progressive wind-up to 3-Hz frequency of electrical stimulation as well as after-discharges of sensory input of DH WDR neurons, and simultaneously recorded motor output of spinal reflexes to 20-Hz frequency of electrical stimulation; this suggests that serotonin, through 5-HT1A receptors, exerts an inhibitory role in the control of obstinate pathological pain.

Expression of the 5-HT receptors in rat brain during memory consolidation

Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) system displays more than 14 receptors subtypes on brain areas involved in learning and memory processes, and pharmacological manipulation of specific receptors selectively affects memory formation. In order to begin the search of 5-HT receptors expression during memory formation, in this work, we aimed to determine, by autoradiography (using 3H 5-HT as ligand, 2 nM, specific activity 123 Ci/mmol), 5-HT receptors (5-HTR) expression in passive (untrained) and autoshaping trained (3 sessions) adult (3 months) and old (9 months) male rats. Thus, trained adult rats had better retention than old animals. Raphe nuclei of adult and old trained rats expressed less receptors on medial and dorsal, respectively. Hippocampal CA1 area and dentate gyrus of adult trained rats expressed less 5-HTR, while dentate gyrus of old increased them. Basomedial amygdaloid nucleus in old trained rats expressed more 5-HTR; while in the basolateral amygdaloid nucleus they were augmented in both groups. Training decreased or did not change 5-HTR in caudate-putamen of adult or old animals. The above profile of 5-HTR expression is consistent with previous reports, and suggests that memory formation and aging modulates 5-HTR expression in brain areas relevant to memory systems.

Serotonin neurons derived from rhesus monkey embryonic stem cells: similarities to CNS serotonin neurons

We sought an in vitro primate model for serotonin neurons. Rhesus monkey embryonic stem (ES) cell colonies were isolated and differentiated into embryoid bodies (EBs), then transferred to serum-free medium with 1% insulin-transferrin-selenium for 7 days to induce neural precursor cell (NPC) formation. NPCs were cultured in medium with 1% N-2 neural supplement and human fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2, 10 ng/ml) for 7 days to stimulate cell proliferation. Lastly, NPCs were dispersed into single cells and cultured without FGF2 for another 7 days to obtain terminal differentiation. Terminal cells were characterized for neuronal and serotonergic markers. Over 95% of the NPCs were immunopositive for nestin and Musashi1. Terminally differentiated cells appeared in both small and large morphologies. Most (>95%) of the mature cells (both small and large) were immunopositive for neuron-specific nuclear protein (NeuN), synaptophysin, microtubule-associated protein (MAP2C), Tau-1, neurofilament 160 (NF-160), beta-tubulin (TujIII), tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH), serotonin, the serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT), estrogen receptor-beta (ERbeta), and progestin receptor (PR), but not estrogen receptor-alpha (ERalpha). Less than 2-3% of cells were positive for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH). Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) detected mRNA transcripts for TPH-1, TPH-2, SERT, 5-HT1A-autoreceptor, ERbeta, and PR in the differentiated population. A low level of expression of ERalpha mRNA was also detected. Quantitative RT-PCR indicated that the relative abundance of TPH-2 mRNA was greater than TPH-1 mRNA. Serotonin as measured by ELISA increased 3-fold in the mature stage compared to the selection and expansion stages. In summary, a remarkably high percentage of cells derived from monkey ES cells exhibited neuronal plus serotonergic markers as well as nuclear steroid receptors similar to primate CNS serotonin neurons, suggesting that these cells may serve as a useful primate model for serotonergic neurons.

A paracrine signaling role for serotonin in rat taste buds: expression and localization of serotonin receptor subtypes

Recent advances in peripheral taste physiology now suggest that the classic linear view of information processing within the taste bud is inadequate and that paracrine processing, although undemonstrated, may be an essential feature of peripheral gustatory transduction. Taste receptor cells (TRCs) express multiple neurotransmitters of unknown function that could potentially participate in a paracrine role. Serotonin is expressed in a subset of TRCs with afferent synapses; additionally, TRCs respond physiologically to serotonin. This study explored the expression and cellular localization of serotonin receptor subtypes in TRCs as a possible route of paracrine communication. RT-PCR was performed on RNA extracted from rat posterior taste buds with 14 primer sets representing 5-HT1 through 5-HT7 receptor subtype families. Data suggest that 5-HT1A and 5-HT3 receptors are expressed in taste buds. Immunocytochemistry with a 5-HT1A-specific antibody demonstrated that subsets of TRCs were immunopositive for 5-HT1A. With the use of double-labeling, serotonin- and 5-HT1A-immunopositive cells were observed exclusively in nonoverlapping populations. On the other hand, 5-HT3-immunopositive taste receptor cells were not observed. This observation, combined with other data, suggests 5-HT3 is expressed in postsynaptic neural elements within the bud. We hypothesize that 5-HT release from TRCs activates postsynaptic 5-HT3 receptors on afferent nerve fibers and, via a paracrine route, inhibits neighboring TRCs via 5-HT1A receptors. The role of the 5-HT1A-expressing TRC within the taste bud remains to be explored.

Role of the epithelium and acetylcholine in mediating the contraction to 5-hydroxytryptamine in the mouse isolated trachea

1. The 5-HT receptor subtype that mediates bronchocontraction and the involvement of neuronal and non-neuronal acetylcholine was assessed in murine isolated tracheae. 2. Atropine (1-10 nM) caused a rightward shift of the methacholine concentration-effect curves (pA(2)=9.0) but reduced the maximum response to 5-HT, suggesting that 5-HT acts as an indirect agonist. The potency of 5-HT receptor agonists (alpha-methyl-5-HT approximately 5-HT>5-carboxamidotryptamine), together with the competitive antagonism of 5-HT by ketanserin (pA(2)=9.4), suggests the involvement of the 5-HT(2A) receptor. 3. While cholinergic twitch responses to electrical field stimulation were abolished by the fast sodium channel inhibitor tetrodotoxin (300 nM), as well as by combined blockade of N-, P- and Q-type voltage-operated calcium channels by omega-conotoxin GVIA (30 nM) and agatoxin IVA (100 nM), responses to 5-HT were unaffected. Similarly, botulinum toxin A (50 nM) inhibited EFS twitch responses, but not contractions to 5-HT. 4. Choline acetyltransferase immunoreactivity was localised to ganglia and nerve fibres as well as approximately half the epithelial cells in the preparation. Removal of the epithelial layer markedly attenuated the contractile response to 5-HT, but had no effect on contractions to either methacholine or EFS. 5. These findings suggest that 5-HT, acting at 5-HT(2A) receptors on mouse tracheal epithelial cells, stimulates these cells to release acetylcholine, which then causes contraction of airway smooth muscle. This phenomenon should be borne in mind in when interpreting studies of murine models of airway disease.

Synthesis and structure–activity relationships of a new model of arylpiperazines. Part 7: Study of the influence of lipophilic factors at the terminal amide fragment on 5-HT1A affinity/selectivity

The influence of lipophilic factors at the amide fragment of a new series of (+/-)-7a-alkyl-2-[4-(4-arylpiperazin-1-yl)butyl]-1,3-dioxoperhydropyrrolo[1,2-c]imidazoles 2 and of (+/-)-7a-alkyl-2-[(4-arylpiperazin-1-yl)methyl]-1,3-dioxoperhydropyrrolo[1,2-c]imidazoles 3 has been studied. Variations of logP have been carried out by introducing different hydrocarbonated substituents (R(1)) at the position 7a of the bicyclohydantoin, namely the non-pharmacophoric part. All the new compounds exhibit high potency for the 5-HT(1A) receptor; however, affinities for the alpha(1) receptor are high for compounds 2a-l while compounds 3a-f are selective over this adrenergic receptor. On the other hand, differences in logP do not notably affect the K(i) values for the above receptors.

5-HT has contrasting effects in the frontal cortex, but not the hypothalamus, on changes in noradrenaline efflux induced by the monoamine releasing-agent, d-amphetamine, and the reuptake inhibitor, BTS 54 354

There is extensive evidence for functional interactions between central noradrenergic and serotonergic neurones. Here, dual-probe microdialysis was used in freely-moving rats to compare the effects of 5-HT on noradrenergic transmission in the rat frontal cortex and hypothalamus. We studied the effects of the 5-HT synthesis inhibitor, para-chlorophenylalanine (pCPA; which depleted 5-HT stores in both the frontal cortex and the hypothalamus), on spontaneous efflux of noradrenaline and on the noradrenergic responses to d-amphetamine, and the monoamine reuptake inhibitor, BTS 54 354. pCPA pretreatment alone did not affect spontaneous noradrenaline efflux in either brain region, whether or not alpha2-autoreceptors were inactivated by administration of the alpha2-antagonist, atipamezole (1 mg/kg i.p). However, in the frontal cortex, pCPA pretreatment augmented the amplitude of, and prolonged, the noradrenergic response to local infusion of d-amphetamine (10 microM). In contrast, pCPA abolished the increase in cortical noradrenaline efflux induced by local infusion of BTS 54 354 (50 microM). In the hypothalamus, pCPA did not affect the amplitude of the response to either of these agents but did prolong the effects of d-amphetamine on noradrenaline efflux. These findings suggest that serotonergic transmission has complex effects on the noradrenergic response to drugs that increase noradrenergic transmission in the frontal cortex, but has less influence in the hypothalamus.

Morphine actions in the rat forebrain: role of protein kinase C

Acute administration of morphine induces expression of the immediate-early gene (IEG) c-Fos in dorsomedial striatum, portions of cerebral cortex, and in several midline-intralaminar thalamic nuclei, partly via a trans-synaptic mechanism that involves activation of glutamate receptors. Because activation of protein kinase C (PKC) may occur following the activation of glutamate receptors, we determined whether pharmacological inhibition of PKC would attenuate morphine-induced c-Fos expression, and whether acute administration of morphine would induce translocation of PKC. The selective PKC antagonist NPC 15437 given 30 min prior to morphine significantly decreased morphine-induced c-Fos expression in striatum and cingulate cortex, but not in centrolateral thalamus. In another experiment, rats were given an acute dose of morphine, and immunocytochemical analysis was performed for the betaI and betaII isoforms of PKC. Morphine induced a rapid and transient translocation of PKC betaII, but not betaI, from perinuclear spots to plasma membrane in numerous cortical and striatal neurons. Prior administration of naloxone blocked this response. Ultrastructural studies confirmed translocation from Golgi apparatus to plasma membrane 15 min after morphine injection. Double immunocytochemistry at the light microscopic level demonstrated co-localization of translocated PKC betaII and c-Fos in some cortical neurons 90 min after morphine injection. These results support a role for PKC, especially PKC betaII, in the rapid effects of morphine on the brain.

Design and synthesis of new benzimidazole-arylpiperazine derivatives acting as mixed 5-HT1A/5-HT3 ligands

A series of new benzimidazole-arylpiperazine derivatives III were designed, synthesized and evaluated for binding affinity at serotoninergic 5-HT(1A) and 5-HT(3) receptors. Compound IIIc was identified as a novel mixed 5-HT(1A)/5-HT(3) ligand with high affinity for both serotonin receptors and excellent selectivity over alpha(1)-adrenergic and dopamine D(2) receptors. This compound was characterized as a partial agonist at 5-HT(1A)Rs and a 5-HT(3)R antagonist, and was effective in preventing the cognitive deficits induced by muscarinic receptor blockade in a passive avoidance learning test.