Effects of dopamine antagonism on methamphetamine sensitization: evaluation by ambulatory activity in mice

The role of CYP2D in rat brain in methamphetamine-induced striatal dopamine and serotonin release and behavioral sensitization

RATIONALE

Cytochrome P450 2D (CYP2D) enzymes metabolize many addictive drugs, including methamphetamine. Variable CYP2D metabolism in the brain may alter CNS drug/metabolite concentrations, consequently affecting addiction liability and neuropsychiatric outcomes; components of these can be modeled by behavioral sensitization in rats.

METHODS

To investigate the role of CYP2D in the brain in methamphetamine-induced behavioral sensitization, rats were pretreated centrally with a CYP2D irreversible inhibitor (or vehicle) 20 h prior to each of 7 daily methamphetamine (0.5 mg/kg subcutaneous) injections. In vivo brain microdialysis was used to assess brain drug and metabolite concentrations, and neurotransmitter release.

RESULTS

CYP2D inhibitor (versus vehicle) pretreatment enhanced methamphetamine-induced stereotypy response sensitization. CYP2D inhibitor pretreatment increased brain methamphetamine concentrations and decreased the brain p-hydroxylation metabolic ratio. With microdialysis conducted on days 1 and 7, CYP2D inhibitor pretreatment exacerbated stereotypy sensitization and enhanced dopamine and serotonin release in the dorsal striatum. Day 1 brain methamphetamine and amphetamine concentrations correlated with dopamine and serotonin release, which in turn correlated with the stereotypy response slope across sessions (i.e., day 1 through day 7), used as a measure of sensitization.

CONCLUSIONS

CYP2D-mediated methamphetamine metabolism in the brain is sufficient to alter behavioral sensitization, brain drug concentrations, and striatal dopamine and serotonin release. Moreover, day 1 methamphetamine-induced neurotransmitter release may be an important predictor of subsequent behavioral sensitization. This suggests the novel contribution of CYP2D in the brain to methamphetamine-induced behavioral sensitization and suggests that the wide variation in human brain CYP2D6 may contribute to differential methamphetamine responses and chronic effects.

Far-infrared Ray-mediated Antioxidant Potentials are Important for Attenuating Psychotoxic Disorders

Far-infrared ray (FIR) is an electromagnetic wave that produces various health benefits against pathophysiological conditions, such as diabetes mellitus, renocardiovascular disorders, stress, and depression etc. However, the therapeutic ap-plication on the FIR-mediated protective potentials remains to be further extended. To achieve better understanding on FIR-mediated therapeutic potentials, we summarized additional findings in the present study that exposure to FIR ameliorates stressful condition, memory impairments, drug dependence, and mitochondrial dysfunction in the central nervous system. In this review, we underlined that FIR requires modulations of janus kinase 2 / signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK2/STAT3), nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2), muscarinic M1 acetylcholine receptor (M1 mAChR), dopamine D1 receptor, protein kinase C δ gene, and glutathione peroxidase-1 gene for exerting the protective potentials in response to neuropsychotoxic conditions

Potential for targeting dopamine/DARPP-32 signaling in neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders

INTRODUCTION

Alterations in dopamine neurotransmission has been implicated in pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, and DARPP-32 plays a pivotal role in dopamine neurotransmission. DARPP-32 likely influences dopamine-mediated behaviors in animal models of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders and therapeutic effects of pharmacological treatment. Areas covered: We will review animal studies on the biochemical and behavioral roles of DARPP-32 in drug addiction, schizophrenia and Parkinson's disease. In general, under physiological and pathophysiological conditions, DARPP-32 in D1 receptor expressing (D1R) -medium spiny neurons (MSNs) promotes dopamine/D1 receptor/PKA signaling, whereas DARPP-32 in D2 receptor expressing (D2R)-MSNs counteracts dopamine/D2 receptor signaling. However, the function of DARPP-32 is differentially regulated in acute and chronic phases of drug addiction; DARPP-32 enhances D1 receptor/PKA signaling in the acute phase, whereas DARPP-32 suppresses D1 receptor/PKA signaling in the chronic phase through homeostatic mechanisms. Therefore, DARPP-32 plays a bidirectional role in dopamine neurotransmission, depending on the cell type and experimental conditions, and is involved in dopamine-related behavioral abnormalities. Expert opinion: DARPP-32 differentially regulates dopamine signaling in D1R- and D2R-MSNs, and a shift of balance between D1R- and D2R-MSN function is associated with behavioral abnormalities. An adjustment of this imbalance is achieved by therapeutic approaches targeting DARPP-32-related signaling molecules.

Effects of D2 or combined D1/D2 receptor antagonism on the methamphetamine-induced one-trial and multi-trial behavioral sensitization of preweanling rats

RATIONALE

There is suggestive evidence that the neural mechanisms mediating one-trial and multi-trial behavioral sensitization differ, especially when the effects of various classes of dopamine (DA) agonists are examined.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the present study was to determine the role of the D2 receptor for the induction of one-trial and multi-trial methamphetamine sensitization in preweanling rats.

METHODS

In a series of experiments, rats were injected with saline or raclopride (a selective D2 receptor antagonist), either alone or in combination with SCH23390 (a selective D1 receptor antagonist), 15 min prior to treatment with the indirect DA agonist methamphetamine. Acute control groups were given two injections of saline. This pretreatment regimen occurred on either postnatal days (PD) 13-16 (multi-trial) or PD 16 (one-trial). On PD 17, rats were challenged with methamphetamine and locomotor sensitization was determined.

RESULTS

Blockade of D2 or D1/D2 receptors reduced or prevented, respectively, the induction of multi-trial methamphetamine sensitization in young rats, while the same manipulations had minimal effects on one-trial behavioral sensitization.

CONCLUSIONS

DA antagonist treatment differentially affected the methamphetamine-induced sensitized responding of preweanling rats depending on whether a one-trial or multi-trial procedure was used. The basis for this effect is uncertain, but there was some evidence that repeated DA antagonist treatment caused nonspecific changes that produced a weakened sensitized response. Importantly, DA antagonist treatment did not prevent the one-trial behavioral sensitization of preweanling rats. The latter result brings into question whether DA receptor stimulation is necessary for the induction of psychostimulant-induced behavioral sensitization during early ontogeny.

Role of the D1 receptor for the dopamine agonist-induced one-trial behavioral sensitization of preweanling rats

RATIONALE

The neural mechanisms mediating the ontogeny of behavioral sensitization are poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the present study was to determine the role of the D1 receptor for the induction of dopamine agonist-induced behavioral sensitization during the preweanling period.

METHODS

In the first experiment, the early ontogeny of R-propylnorapomorphine (NPA)-induced behavioral sensitization was examined by pretreating male and female rats with saline or NPA (0.5, 1, or 2 mg/kg, intraperitoneally (IP)) before placement in activity chambers on postnatal day (PD) 12, 16, 20, or 24. One day later, rats were tested with lower doses of NPA and the occurrence of locomotor sensitization was determined. In subsequent experiments, rats were injected with saline or the D1 receptor antagonist SCH23390 (0.1, 0.5, 1, or 5 mg/kg, IP) 0, 15, 30, or 60 min before cocaine, methamphetamine (METH), or NPA pretreatment. The next day, rats were tested with the same dopamine agonist again and sensitized responding was assessed.

RESULTS

NPA produced one-trial behavioral sensitization at all ages tested. In preweanling rats, SCH23390, regardless of dose, was ineffective at preventing the induction of cocaine-, METH-, or NPA-induced one-trial behavioral sensitization.

CONCLUSIONS

The present results are in partial contrast to adult rodent studies, in which SCH23390 blocks the induction of METH- and apomorphine-induced behavioral sensitization, but not cocaine sensitization. When these findings are considered together, it appears that D1 receptor stimulation is not necessary for the induction of behavioral sensitization during the preweanling period, although D1 receptors may play a more important role in adulthood.

Effects of clozapine, haloperidol, and fluoxetine on the reversal of cocaine-induced locomotor sensitization

OBJECTIVE

Repeated treatment with psychostimulants induces sensitization of the dopaminergic system in the brain. Dopaminergic sensitization has been proposed as a mechanism of psychosis. Although antipsychotics block the expression of sensitized behavior, they are ineffective for reversing the sensitized state. We investigated the effect of clozapine, haloperidol, and fluoxetine on the reversal of cocaine-induced behavioral sensitization.

METHODS

Male ICR mice were sensitized to cocaine with repeated treatment. Animals were then split into four groups, and each group was treated with vehicle or one of the above drugs for 5 days. After a 3-day drug washout, locomotor activity was assessed before and after a cocaine challenge.

RESULTS

Clozapine reversed the sensitized state, whereas haloperidol did not. Fluoxetine seemed to reverse the sensitization partially.

CONCLUSION

We confirmed that D2 blockade was not effective for reversing sensitization. The reversal by clozapine is partially explained in terms of its strong 5-HT2 and weak D2 affinity. The partial reversal by fluoxetine seemed to be related to its serotonin-augmenting action.

Unusual effects of nicotine as a psychostimulant on ambulatory activity in mice

The present study examined the effect of nicotine, alone and in combination with various drugs that act on the CNS, on ambulatory activity, a behavioral index for locomotion, in ICR (CD-1) strain mice. Nicotine at 0.25–2 mg/kg acutely reduced ambulatory activity of ICR mice. The effect of nicotine was similar to that of haloperidol and fluphenazine but distinct from that of bupropion and methylphenidate. ICR mice developed tolerance against the inhibitory effect of nicotine on ambulatory activity when nicotine was repeatedly administered. This effect was also distinct from bupropion and methylphenidate as they produced augmentation of their ambulation-stimulating effects in ICR mice. Nicotine reduced the ambulation-stimulating effects of bupropion and methylphenidate as well as haloperidol and fluphenazine. Taken together, nicotine exhibited unusual effects as a psychostimulant on ambulatory activity in ICR mice.

One-trial behavioral sensitization in preweanling rats: differential effects of cocaine, methamphetamine, methylphenidate, and D-amphetamine

RATIONALE

Preweanling rats exhibit robust one-trial cocaine-induced behavioral sensitization; however, it is uncertain whether other psychostimulants can also induce sensitization in young rats using the one-trial procedure.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine whether methamphetamine, methylphenidate, and D: -amphetamine are capable of inducing one-trial locomotor sensitization in preweanling rats.

METHODS

In a series of four experiments, rats were pretreated with cocaine (30 mg/kg), methamphetamine (2-12 mg/kg), methylphenidate (5-20 mg/kg), or amphetamine (5 mg/kg) before being placed in a novel activity chamber or the home cage on PD 19. Rats were then challenged with the same psychostimulant (20 mg/kg cocaine, 1-8 mg/kg methamphetamine, 2.5-7.5 mg/kg methylphenidate, or 1-2 mg/kg amphetamine) on PD 21, with distance traveled being measured for 180 min. In a separate experiment, rats were pretreated with methamphetamine on PD 16-19 and challenged with methamphetamine on PD 21.

RESULTS

Only cocaine, but not various dose combinations of other psychostimulants, was able to produce one-trial behavioral sensitization in preweanling rats. Context-dependent locomotor sensitization was also evident if rats were pretreated with methamphetamine on PD 16-19 and tested on PD 21.

CONCLUSIONS

It is uncertain why only cocaine was able to induce one-trial locomotor sensitization in preweanling rats, but it is possible that: (a) the neural circuitry mediating sensitization differs according to psychostimulant, (b) cocaine is more readily associated with environmental contexts than other psychostimulants, or (c) affinity and pharmacokinetic factors may underlie cocaine's ability to induce one-trial behavioral sensitization in preweanling rats.

Ethanol-induced sensitization depends preferentially on D1 rather than D2 dopamine receptors

Behavioral sensitization, defined as a progressive increase in the locomotor stimulant effects elicited by repeated exposure to drugs of abuse, has been used as an animal model for drug craving in humans. The mesoaccumbens dopaminergic system has been proposed to be critically involved in this phenomenon; however, few studies have been designed to systematically investigate the effects of dopaminergic antagonists on development and expression of behavioral sensitization to ethanol in Swiss mice. We first tested the effects of D(1) antagonist SCH-23390 (0-0.03 mg/kg) or D(2) antagonist Sulpiride (0-30 mg/kg) on the locomotor responses to an acute injection of ethanol (2.0 g/kg). Results showed that all tested doses of the antagonists were effective in blocking ethanol's stimulant effects. In another set of experiments, mice were pretreated intraperitoneally with SCH-23390 (0.01 mg/kg) or Sulpiride (10 mg/kg) 30 min before saline or ethanol injection, for 21 days. Locomotor activity was measured weekly for 20 min. Four days following this pretreatment, all mice were challenged with ethanol. Both antagonists attenuated the development of ethanol sensitization, but only SCH-23390 blocked the expression of ethanol sensitization according to this protocol. When we tested a single dose (30 min before tests) of either antagonist in mice treated chronically with ethanol, both antagonists attenuated ethanol-induced effects. The present findings demonstrate that the concomitant administration of ethanol with D(1) but not D(2) antagonist prevented the expression of ethanol sensitization, suggesting that the neuroadaptations underlying ethanol behavioral sensitization depend preferentially on D(1) receptor actions.

Treatment of the psychostimulant-sensitized animal model of schizophrenia

Behavioral sensitization to psychostimulants in rodents is associated with the alteration of dopaminergic neurotransmission, and has been proposed as a useful model of schizophrenia due to its progressively intensifying, easily relapsing, and long-lasting features. Pharmacological treatments that reverse the established sensitization may have potential therapeutic values for schizophrenia. The present aim is to review pharmacological treatments that induce the reversal of established sensitization to psychostimulants. In addition, we discuss possible mechanisms for the reversal of sensitization. Reversal of sensitization is induced by chronic dopamine D1 receptor agonism, D2 or D1/D2 receptor agonism combined with mild N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonism or serotonin (5-HT(2A) or 5-HT(3) ) receptor antagonism, 5-HT(1A) receptor agonism, and 5-HT(2A) or 5-HT(3) receptor antagonism. Chronic treatments with these drugs likely adjust altered dopaminergic neurotransmission in sensitized animals. Especially, chronic dopamine D1 receptor agonism, which may adjust mesolimbic hyperdopaminergic and mesocortical hypodopaminergic functions in sensitized animals, is an attractive therapeutic approach for schizophrenia.

Role of dopamine D1-like receptors in methamphetamine locomotor responses of D2 receptor knockout mice

Behavioral sensitization to psychostimulants manifests as an increased locomotor response with repeated administration. Dopamine systems are accepted to play a fundamental role in sensitization, but the role of specific dopamine receptor subtypes has not been completely defined. This study used the combination of dopamine D2 receptor-deficient mice and a D1-like antagonist to examine dopamine D1 and D2 receptor involvement in acute and sensitized locomotor responses to methamphetamine. Absence of the dopamine D2 receptor resulted in attenuation of the acute stimulant effects of methamphetamine. Mutant and wild-type mice exhibited sensitization that lasted longer within the time period of the challenge test in the mutant animals. Pretreatment with the D1-like receptor antagonist SCH 23390 produced more potent reductions in the acute and sensitized locomotor responses to methamphetamine in D2 receptor-deficient mice than in wild-type mice; however, the expression of locomotor sensitization when challenged with methamphetamine alone was equivalently attenuated by previous treatment with SCH 23390. These data suggest that dopamine D2 receptors play a key role in the acute stimulant and sensitizing effects of methamphetamine and act in concert with D1-like receptors to influence the acquisition of methamphetamine-induced behavioral sensitization, traits that may influence continued methamphetamine use.

Evidence for dopamine involvement in ambulation promoted by menthone in mice

The present study examines the mechanism that underlies the ability of menthone (MTN), a constituent of peppermint oil, to promote mouse ambulation. Since bupropion (BUP), a dopamine (DA) uptake inhibitor, promotes mouse ambulation, the effect of MTN combined with BUP on ambulation was investigated. The results showed that BUP with MTN produced an additive interaction on mouse ambulation. The effects of DA antagonists chlorpromazine, fluphenazine, haloperidol, SCH12679 and spiperone on the ability of MTN to promote ambulation were then examined. All of these antagonists attenuated the effects of MTN. Prior exposure to the tyrosine hydroxylase inhibitor alpha-methyl-p-tyrosine, which inhibits catecholamines synthesis, decreased subsequent sensitivity to the effect of MTN. These results suggest that DA is involved in the ability of MTN to promote ambulation in mice.

Behavioral and biochemical responses to d-amphetamine in MCH1 receptor knockout mice

The melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) system is anatomically and functionally interlaced with the mesocorticolimbic dopamine system. Therefore, we investigated whether MCH(1) receptor knockout (KO) mice are more susceptible than wild-type (WT) mice to psychostimulant-induced locomotor stimulation and sensitization, dopamine receptor-mediated phosphorylation events and c-fos expression within the frontal cortex and ventral striatum. MCH(1) receptor KO mice have 20% higher basal locomotor activity, are hypersensitive to the locomotor activating effects of d-amphetamine (1 mg/kg), and develop behavioral sensitization to a regimen of repeated d-amphetamine administration that does not induce sensitization in WT mice. In addition, d-amphetamine-mediated regulation of p44-mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation within the frontal cortex was significantly enhanced in MCH(1) receptor KO mice, when compared with WT mice. No significant genotype difference in the effects of d-amphetamine on MAPK phosphorylation events within the ventral striatum, phosphorylation at Ser(897) of the NR1 subunit of the NMDA receptor or Ca(2+) and cyclic AMP response-element binding-protein (CREB) at Ser(133) in the frontal cortex was detected. d-Amphetamine (3 mg/kg) increased c-fos expression within the frontal cortex in MCH(1) receptor KO mice, but not WT mice. There were no d-amphetamine-induced changes in c-fos expression within the ventromedial striatum in KO or WT mice. Overall, MCH(1) receptor KO mice are hypersensitive to the behavioral and molecular effects of the dopaminergic psychostimulant d-amphetamine. Increased frontal cortical MAPK phosphorylation and c-fos expression in MCH(1) receptor KO mice indicates that the MCH(1) receptor may be an important target for treating neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by frontal cortex dysfunction, including depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and schizophrenia.

Reversal of the expression pattern of Aldolase C mRNA in Purkinje cells and Ube 1x mRNA in Golgi cells by a dopamine D1 receptor agonist injections in the methamphetamine sensitized-rat cerebellum

The cerebellum has a parasagittal modular structure, in which Zebrin (Aldolase) positive and negative bands expressed in Purkinje cell layers alternate, and is involved in amphetamine psychosis. Administration of SKF38393, a D1 receptor agonist, reversed the behavioral sensitization of methamphetamine. In the vermis, there were the binding sites of SKF38393. In methamphetamine-sensitized rats the expression of the Aldolase mRNA positive bands move laterally in the rat vermis. We provide here the evidence that the D1 agonist injections also reversed the expression pattern of both the Aldolase mRNA in Purkinje cells and Ube (ubiquitin activating enzyme) 1x mRNA in Golgi interneurons of the sensitized rats. Thus the reverse changes in gene expression pattern in the vermis may be involved in the mechanisms of the behavioral plasticity and suggests the new treatment of drug abuse.

Methamphetamine modulates DC-SIGN expression by mature dendritic cells

We report that methamphetamine (meth) may act as cofactor in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 pathogenesis by increasing dendritic cell (DC)-specific intercellular adhesion molecule-3 (ICAM-3) grabbing non-integrin (DC-SIGN) expression on DCs. Mature DCs (MDCs), obtained from normal subjects, cultured with meth show an up-regulation of DC-SIGN gene and protein expression as analyzed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and fluorescence-activated cell-sorting analyses, respectively. Furthermore, these meth-induced effects were reversed by a dopamine D1 receptor antagonist (SCH 23390) and small interfering RNA specific to the D1 receptor (D1R) demonstrating that meth-induced effects are mediated through these receptors. Furthermore, meth in synergy with the HIV-1 peptide gp120 up-regulates DC-SIGN gene expression by MDCs. These data are the first evidence that meth up-regulates the expression of DC-SIGN on MDCs. A better understanding of the role of DC-SIGN in HIV-1 infection may help to design novel therapeutic strategies against the progression of HIV-1 disease in the drug-using population.

Reversal of methamphetamine-induced behavioral sensitization by repeated administration of a dopamine D1 receptor agonist

Repeated intermittent administration of methamphetamine (MAP) produces an enduring hypersensitivity to the motor stimulant effect of MAP, termed behavioral sensitization. Dopamine plays a critical role in the development and expression of behavioral sensitization. Here, we investigated whether a dopamine D1 receptor agonist could reverse behavioral sensitization to MAP. Administration of MAP (1.0 mg/kg, i.p.) to rats once every 3 days for a total of 5 times (days 1-13) induced the enhancement of locomotor activity after MAP challenge (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.) on day 20, verifying the development of behavioral sensitization. The MAP-sensitized rats then received a dopamine D1 agonist, R-(+)-SKF38393 (3.0 mg/kg, i.p.), once a day for 7 consecutive days (days 21-27). Behavioral analysis on days 30 and 41 revealed that the enhanced locomotor activity was reversed by repeated R-(+)-SKF38393 administration. Moreover, repeated R-(+)-SKF38393 administration reversed the increased dopamine release in the striatum after MAP challenge on day 41. Thus, repeated administration of the dopamine D1 receptor agonist induces the reversal of established behavioral sensitization to MAP and of increased dopamine release in the striatum, lasting for at least 2 weeks. Dopamine D1 receptor agonists may be useful therapeutic agents for the treatment of psychostimulant addiction.

Do preclinical findings of methamphetamine-induced motor abnormalities translate to an observable clinical phenotype?

This review summarizes the preclinical literature of the effects of methamphetamine (MA) on subcortical dopaminergic and GABAergic mechanisms underlying motor behavior with the goal of elucidating the clinical presentation of human MA-induced movement disorders. Acute and chronic MA exposure in laboratory animal can lead to a variety of motor dysfunctions including increased locomotor activity, stereotypies, diminished or enhanced response times, and parkinsonian-like features. With the exception of psychomotor impairment and hyperkinesia, MA-induced movement disorders are not well documented in humans. This review attempts to draw parallels between the animal and human changes in basal ganglia neurochemistry associated with MA exposure and offers explanations for why a parkinsonian phenotype is not apparent among individuals who use and abuse MA. Significant differences in the expression of neurotoxicity and presence of multiple environmental and pharmacologic confounds may account for the lack of a parkinsonian phenotype in humans despite evidence of altered dopamine function.

Studies on the role of dopamine D1 receptors in the development and expression of MDMA-induced behavioral sensitization in rats

RATIONALE

There is a large body of evidence indicating that the mesoaccumbens dopamine pathway is critically involved in the expression of behavioral sensitization to amphetamine and cocaine, but its role in the development of sensitization to psychostimulants is not that sound. Very few studies, however, have examined the role of dopamine transmission in 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-induced sensitization.

OBJECTIVES

The effects of the D1 receptor antagonist SCH 23390 on the development and expression of MDMA-induced behavioral sensitization were investigated in rats.

METHODS

During the development phase of sensitization, SCH 23390 was administered 15 min before every administration of MDMA. After 12 days of withdrawal, a MDMA challenge dose was given and locomotor activity was measured. In separate experiments, 15 min before the challenge injection of MDMA, SCH 23390 was administered either systemically or directly into the core of the nucleus accumbens (NAc) of MDMA-pretreated rats.

RESULTS

SCH 23390 did not prevent the development of MDMA-induced behavioral sensitization but completely blocked the expression when given before the challenge dose of MDMA. The same results were obtained when SCH 23390 was locally applied into the core of the NAc.

CONCLUSIONS

The present data suggest that D1 receptor stimulation is not critical for the development of long-term MDMA sensitization, in agreement with what has been reported for cocaine. By contrast, expression of sensitization depends on the activation of D1 receptors located in the NAc core.

Evidence for the involvement of dopamine in ambulation promoted by menthol in mice

The present study examines the mechanism that underlies the ability of menthol (ME), a major constituent of peppermint oil, to promote mouse ambulation. We initially confirmed that bupropion (BUP), a dopamine (DA) uptake inhibitor, promotes ambulation in ICR mice. Since the subcutaneous administration of ME produced similar effects in mice, we investigated the effects of ME on ambulation when combined with BUP. The results showed that BUP potentiated the effect of ME on mouse ambulation. We then examined effects of the DA antagonists chlorpromazine, haloperidol, fluphenazine, spiperone, and SCH12679 on the ability of BUP and ME to promote ambulation. All of these DA antagonists attenuated the effects of BUP and ME. Prior exposure to reserpine, which depletes monoamines, caused decreased sensitivity to the ability of BUP and of ME in promoting ambulation. The tyrosine hydroxylase inhibitor alpha-methyl-p-tyrosine, similarly decreased subsequent sensitivity to the effects of BUP and ME. These results suggest that DA is involved in the abilities of ME and BUP to promote ambulation in mice.

D3 dopamine receptor, behavioral sensitization, and psychosis

Behavioral sensitization is a progressive, enduring enhancement of behaviors that develops following repeated stimulant administration. It is mediated in part by dopaminergic pathways that also modulate a number of psychiatric conditions including the development of psychosis. We propose that down-regulation of D3 dopamine receptor function in critical brain regions contributes to sensitization. Rodent locomotion, a sensitizable behavior, is regulated by the opposing influence of dopamine receptor subtypes, with D3 stimulation opposing concurrent D1 and D2 receptor activation. The D3 dopamine receptor has a 70-fold greater affinity for dopamine than D1 or D2 dopamine receptors. This imbalance in ligand affinity dictates greater occupancy for D3 than D1 or D2 receptors at typical dopamine concentrations following stimulant drug administration, resulting in differences in the relative tolerance at D3 vs D1 and D2 receptors. Sensitization may therefore result in part from accommodation of the inhibitory D3 receptor 'brake' on D1/D2 mediated behaviors, leading to a progressive locomotion increase following repeated stimulant exposure. The requirement for differential tolerance at D3 vs D1 and D2 receptors may explain the observed development of sensitization following application of cocaine, but not amphetamine, directly into nucleus accumbens. If correct, the 'D3 Dopamine Receptor Hypothesis' suggests D3 antagonists could prevent sensitization, and may interrupt the development of psychosis when administered during the prodromal phase of psychotic illness. Additional study is needed to clarify the role of the D3 dopamine receptor in sensitization and psychosis.

Combined effects of diethylpropion and alcohol on locomotor activity of mice: participation of the dopaminergic and opioid systems

The widespread consumption of anorectics and combined anorectic + alcohol misuse are problems in Brazil. In order to better understand the interactive effects of ethanol (EtOH) and diethylpropion (DEP) we examined the locomotion-activating effects of these drugs given alone or in combination in mice. We also determined whether this response was affected by dopamine (DA) or opioid receptor antagonists. A total of 160 male Swiss mice weighing approximately 30 g were divided into groups of 8 animals per group. The animals were treated daily for 7 consecutive days with combined EtOH + DEP (1.2 g/kg and 5.0 mg/kg, ip), EtOH (1.2 g/kg, ip), DEP (5.0 mg/kg, ip) or the control solution coadministered with the DA antagonist haloperidol (HAL, 0.075 mg/kg, ip), the opioid antagonist naloxone (NAL, 1.0 mg/kg, ip), or vehicle. On days 1, 7 and 10 after the injections, mice were assessed in activity cages at different times (15, 30, 45 and 60 min) for 5 min. The acute combination of EtOH plus DEP induced a significantly higher increase in locomotor activity (day 1: 369.5 +/- 34.41) when compared to either drug alone (day 1: EtOH = 232.5 +/- 23.79 and DEP = 276.0 +/- 12.85) and to control solution (day 1: 153.12 +/- 7.64). However, the repeated administration of EtOH (day 7: 314.63 +/- 26.79 and day 10: 257.62 +/- 29.91) or DEP (day 7: 309.5 +/- 31.65 and day 10: 321.12 +/- 39. 24) alone or in combination (day 7: 459.75 +/- 41.28 and day 10: 427. 87 +/- 33.0) failed to induce a progressive increase in the locomotor response. These data demonstrate greater locomotion-activating effects of the EtOH + DEP combination, probably involving DA and/or opioid receptor stimulation, since the daily pretreatment with HAL (day 1: EtOH + DEP = 395.62 +/- 11.92 and EtOH + DEP + HAL = 371.5 +/- 6.76; day 7: EtOH + DEP = 502.5 +/- 42.27 and EtOH + DEP + HAL = 281.12 +/- 16.08; day 10: EtOH + DEP = 445.75 +/- 16.64 and EtOH + DEP + HAL = 376.75 +/- 16.4) and NAL (day 1: EtOH + DEP = 553.62 +/- 38.15 and EtOH + DEP + NAL = 445.12 +/- 55.67; day 7: EtOH + DEP = 617.5 +/- 38.89 and EtOH + DEP + NAL = 418.25 +/- 61.18; day 10: EtOH + DEP = 541.37 +/- 32.86 and EtOH + DEP + NAL = 427.12 +/- 51.6) reduced the locomotor response induced by combined administration of EtOH + DEP. These findings also suggest that a major determinant of combined anorectic-alcohol misuse may be the increased stimulating effects produced by the combination.

Amphetamine-induced glutamate efflux in the rat ventral tegmental area is prevented by MK-801, SCH 23390, and ibotenic acid lesions of the prefrontal cortex

We showed previously that amphetamine challenge produces a delayed increase in glutamate efflux in the ventral tegmental area of both naive and chronic amphetamine-treated rats. The present study examined the mechanisms underlying this response. The NMDA receptor antagonist MK-801 (0.1 mg/kg, i.p.) or the D1 dopamine receptor antagonist SCH 23390 (0.1 mg/kg, i.p.), given 30 min before acute amphetamine (5 mg/kg, i.p.), prevented amphetamine-induced glutamate efflux. Neither antagonist by itself altered glutamate efflux. Ibotenic acid lesions of the prefrontal cortex similarly prevented amphetamine-induced glutamate efflux, while producing a trend toward decreased basal glutamate levels (82.8% of sham group). Previous work has shown that the doses of NMDA and D1 receptor antagonists used in this study prevent the induction of behavioral sensitization when coadministered repeatedly with amphetamine, and that identical prefrontal cortex lesions performed before repeated amphetamine prevent the induction of ambulatory sensitization. Thus, treatments that prevent acute amphetamine from elevating glutamate efflux in the ventral tegmental area also prevent repeated amphetamine from eliciting behavioral sensitization. These findings suggest that repeated elevation of glutamate levels during a chronic amphetamine regimen may contribute to the cascade of neuroadaptations within the ventral tegmental area that enables the induction of sensitization.

Involvement of dopamine receptors on locomotor stimulation and sensitization elicited by the interaction of ethanol and mazindol in mice

We have previously observed that the combination of ethanol (EtOH) and the anorectic drug mazindol (MZ) produces more marked effects on behavior than either substance alone. In the present study we examined whether the repeated administration of the drug combination could induce sensitization to its motor activating effects in mice and, if so, whether this response could be affected by dopamine (DA) receptors antagonists. Male Swiss albino mice were treated daily for 7 days with combined EtOH+MZ (1.2 g/kg, 5.0 mg/kg IP), EtOH (1.2 g/kg IP), MZ (5.0 mg/kg IP), or control solution coadministered with the D1 dopamine antagonist SCH-23390 (0.025 or 0.05 mg/kg IP), the mixed dopamine antagonist haloperidol (0.05 or 0.075 mg/kg IP), or vehicle. After the injections on days 1, 7, and 10, mice were assessed in activity cages at different time intervals. Repeated administration of MZ resulted in an enhancement of its locomotor activating effects, behavioral sensitization. Further, the combined EtOH+MZ treatment also resulted in sensitization to its locomotor effects. Moreover, the development of MZ and EtOH+MZ sensitization was attenuated by both SCH-23390 and haloperidol. These data demonstrate that following repeated MZ or EtOH+MZ exposure mice show locomotor sensitization through DA receptor stimulation. Also, these findings suggest that a major determinant of combined anorectic-alcohol misuse may be the increased stimulating effects produced by such combination.

Sensitization of stereotyped behavior to amphetamine is context and response dependent

The present study was designed to determine whether the environmental context in which amphetamine is administered plays a role in the development of sensitization to the stereotyped behavioral effects of amphetamine in mice. In male CF-1 mice, the dose-response curve for stereotyped behavior elicited by amphetamine was shifted 1.9-fold to the left 48 h after pretreatment with 14 mg/kg amphetamine. Behavioral sensitization only developed in mice that were pretreated in the same or a similar environment as that of the test environment. In addition, when mice were placed in an environment that attenuated the acute expression of stereotyped behavior elicited by the pretreatment dose of amphetamine, sensitization never developed. A further experiment showed that 96% of the mice that expressed stereotypy after the ED50 pretreatment dose of 10 mg/kg amphetamine showed a stereotyped behavioral response to the lesser dose of 7 mg/kg 48 h later, indicating sensitization. In contrast, mice that did not express stereotypy after the ED50 dose of amphetamine failed to show a significant stereotyped behavioral response to amphetamine challenge compared to vehicle-pretreated controls. Therefore, the results indicate that preexposure to a single high dose of amphetamine produces context- and response-dependent sensitization to amphetamine-induced stereotyped behavior.

Inhibition by ginsenosides Rb1 and Rg1 of methamphetamine-induced hyperactivity, conditioned place preference and postsynaptic dopamine receptor supersensitivity in mice

The ginsenosides Rb1 and Rg1, the major components of ginseng saponin, inhibited not only methamphetamine-induced hyperactivity but also conditioned place preference (CPP) in mice following a single or repeated administration. Dopamine (DA) receptor supersensitivity, which developed in methamphetamine-induced CPP mice, was also inhibited by both Rb1 and Rg1. Therefore, the present results suggest that Rb1 and Rg1 may be the active components of ginseng saponin in the modulation of methamphetamine-induced dopaminergic behaviors such as hyperactivity and CPP, supporting our previous conclusion that ginseng saponin might modulate methamphetamine-induced dysfunction at both the pre- and postsynaptic DA receptors.

Effects of postmethamphetamine treatment with restraint on ambulatory sensitization to methamphetamine in mice

The administration of methamphetamine (2 mg/kg SC) to mice was followed by acceleration of ambulation (locomotion) for 3 h, with the peak effect at 1/2-1 h. When mice were allowed free ambulation for 3 h in an activity cage of 20 cm in diameter after methamphetamine administration, repeated administrations of methamphetamine, four times at 3-day intervals, caused ambulatory sensitization; the count at the fourth administration being approximately 2.3 times as high as that at the first administration. Furthermore, the mice that were allowed ambulation in the activity cage during postmethamphetamine period of either 0-1/2, 0-1, 0-2, or 1/2-1 h (during the other periods, the mice were put in jars of 6 cm in diameter to restrict ambulation) demonstrated ambulatory sensitization to methamphetamine, and these levels were as same as that in the mice given methamphetamine with free ambulation for 3 h. However, the free ambulation during postmethamphetamine periods of 0-1/4 h and 1-3 h failed to produce strong sensitization to methamphetamine. These results suggest that a free ambulation for at least 1/2 h during the postmethamphetamine period of 0-1 h is important for induction of ambulatory sensitization to methamphetamine in mice.

Importance of post-drug environmental factors for induction of sensitization to the ambulation-increasing effects of methamphetamine and cocaine in mice

Mice given five repeated administrations of methamphetamine (MAP: 2 mg/kg SC) or cocaine (COC: 20 mg/kg SC) at 3-day intervals in a round tilting-type activity cage (20 cm in diameter) showed sensitization to the ambulation-increasing effect of each drug. The mean 3- or 2-h overall activity count at the fifth administration of MAP or COC, respectively, was 2.3-2.5 times higher than that at the first administration. Mice given MAP or COC 4 times in round spaces (15-30 cm in diameter), where the floor did not tilt, exhibited sensitization as strong as that demonstrated by mice given each drug in the activity cages, when the mice were given the fifth administration in the activity cages. In contrast, mice repeatedly given the drugs in spaces 4-9 cm in diameter never, and those in space 12 cm in diameter only partially, exhibited sensitization to MAP and COC. Furthermore, mice given MAP or COC 4 times in their home cages (25D x 20W x 15H cm, with ten mice in each cage) showed partial sensitization. Repeated administration of saline to mice in activity cages, in the spaces 4-30 cm in diameter, or in the home cages did not cause significant change in the sensitivity to either MAP or COC. These results suggest that repeated experience of the stimulant effect of drug and the resultant ambulation is required for induction of sensitization to MAP and COC in terms of ambulation in mice. It is also suggested that spaces larger than 12 cm in diameter, which correspond to 2-2.5 times as long as the body length without tail, and no interference from other mice are required for induction of strong sensitization to both MAP and COC.

Effect of haloperidol on the behavioral stimulation by N-cyanomethylmethamphetamine, a main product of smoking methamphetamine mixed with tobacco

N-Cyanomethylmethamphetamine is a main product of smoking methamphetamine mixed with tobacco. The aim of this experiment was to evaluate the effects of haloperidol on behavioral stimulation by N-cyanomethylmethamphetamine (3 mg/kg s.c.) in terms of ambulation in mice. Repeated administration of N-cyanomethylmethamphetamine, carried out 5 x at 3-day intervals, induced a sensitization to its ambulation-increasing effect. Haloperidol (0.01, 0.03, 0.1 and 0.3 mg/kg s.c.) significantly inhibited not only the acute stimulant effect of N-cyanomethylmethamphetamine but also the induction of sensitization. The dose-effect curves for the inhibitory effects of haloperidol on the N-cyanomethylmethamphetamine-induced ambulatory stimulation were almost the same between the drug-native and N-cyanomethylmethamphetamine-sensitized mice. Moreover, such behavioral characteristics of N-cyanomethylmethamphetamine; the behavioral stimulant effect, the induction of sensitization following repeated administration, and the inhibition of its effects by haloperidol, were qualitatively the same as those of methamphetamine (2 mg/kg s.c.). These results suggest that N-cyanomethylmethamphetamine possesses methamphetamine-like central stimulant effect and that D2 dopaminergic mechanisms are involved in the effect of N-cyanomethylmethamphetamine.

Inhibitory effect of restraint on induction of behavioral sensitization to methamphetamine and cocaine in mice

Repeated intermittent (generally 3-day intervals) administrations of methamphetamine (MAP: 2 mg/kg, SC) or cocaine (COC: 20 mg/kg, SC) induced sensitization to the ambulation-increasing effect of individual drug in mice. The induction of MAP and COC sensitization was inhibited when restraint of the mouse (putting the mouse in a jar of 6 cm in diameter for 3 and 2 h after administration of MAP and COC, respectively) was started immediately after each drug administration. Furthermore, the induction of sensitizations to MAP and COC was significantly reduced when the restraint was started within 1/4 h and 1/6 h after the administration of MAP and COC, respectively, whereas the restraint starting thereafter did not affect the induction of sensitization. The three times repeated administrations of saline with or without restraint did not significantly change the sensitivities to MAP and COC. The ambulation-increasing effects of MAP and COC reached the peak at approximately 2/3 and 1/2 h, respectively, and persisted for 3 and 2 h after the administration. The present results suggest that, to completely induce sensitization to MAP and COC in terms of ambulation, the mice must freely move for at least half of the latency to their peak effects.

Blockade by ginseng total saponin of methamphetamine-induced hyperactivity and conditioned place preference in mice

Ginseng total saponin (GTS) inhibited methamphetamine-induced hyperactivity and conditioned place preference (CPP). Dopamine (DA) receptor supersensitivity was developed in methamphetamine-induced CPP mice and it was inhibited by GTS. GTS also inhibited apomorphine-induced climbing behavior, showing the antidopaminergic activity of GTS. These results suggest that GTS inhibition of the methamphetamine-induced hyperactivity and CPP may be closely related with the inhibition of dopaminergic activation induced by methamphetamine.

Effects of sulpiride and nemonapride, benzamide derivatives having distinct potencies of antagonistic action on dopamine D2 receptors, on sensitization to methamphetamine in mice

The acute ambulatory stimulation by methamphetamine (2 mg kg-1 S.C.) was dose-dependently reduced by 3-h pretreatment or combined treatment with sulpiride (1-100 mg kg-1 S.C.), and combined treatment with nemonapride (0.003-0.03 mg kg-1 S.C.), benzamide derivatives having selective antagonistic action on dopamine D2 receptors. The repeated (5 times) administrations of methamphetamine at 3-day intervals induced a sensitization to its ambulation-increasing effect, and the sensitization was significantly inhibited by 3-h pretreatment with either sulpiride (10-100 mg kg-1), or combined treatment with either sulpiride (3 or 10 mg kg-1) or nemonapride (0.01 or 0.03 mg kg-1) at each methamphetamine administration. Although the ambulation-increasing effect of methamphetamine disappeared by 3 h after the administration, the 3-h post-treatment with sulpiride (3 mg kg-1) or nemonapride (0.03 mg kg-1) after each methamphetamine administration was effective for a significant inhibition of the induction of methamphetamine sensitization, whereas, the comparatively higher doses of sulpiride (30 and 100 mg kg-1 in the combined treatment, and 10-100 mg kg-1 in the post-treatment) did not inhibit the methamphetamine sensitization. On the other hand, the repeated administrations of sulpiride (30 and 100 mg kg-1) alone, but not any doses of nemonapride, at 3-day intervals elicited a significant increase in the sensitivity to methamphetamine. These results suggest that, although the potencies of the anti-methamphetamine effects of sulpiride and nemonapride differ by a factor of 3000, they inhibit the induction of sensitization to methamphetamine in the pretreatment, combined treatment and early post-treatment schedules. However, it is also suggested that the repeated treatment with comparatively higher doses of sulpiride may produce a denervation supersensitivity of dopamine D2 receptors, and resultant increase in the sensitivity to methamphetamine.

Dopamine D1 receptor antagonist SCH 23390 retards methamphetamine sensitization in both combined administration and early posttreatment schedules in mice

SCH 23390 [0.003-0.03 mg/kg, subcutaneously (SC)], a dopamine D1 receptor antagonist, dose-dependently inhibited the ambulation-stimulant effect of methamphetamine (MAP) (2 mg/kg, SC) in mice when two drugs were combined in repeated administrations at 3- to 4-day intervals, repeated five times. SCH 23390 (0.03 mg/kg), which was sufficient to abolish the acute effect of MAP completely throughout the repeated administrations, significantly inhibited the induction of MAP sensitization. Moreover, when the mice were posttreated with SCH 23390 (0.01 and 0.03 mg/kg) 3 h after each MAP administration, at which the ambulation-stimulant effect of MAP had almost disappeared, they showed a significant and dose-dependent retardation of the induction of MAP sensitization. However, the 24-h posttreatment with SCH 23390 had no such effect. The administration of SCH 23390 (0.003-0.03 mg/kg) alone in either the activity cage or the home cage, or saline in the activity cage with 3- or 24-h posttreatment with SCH 23390 (0.01 or 0.03 mg/kg) five times at 3- to 4-day intervals did not elicit any significant changes in MAP sensitivity. The present results indicate that an intense blockade of dopamine D1 receptors in the acute or subacute period after MAP administration causes retardation of MAP sensitization by means of ambulation in mice.

Modification of cocaine sensitization by dopamine D1 and D2 receptor antagonists in terms of ambulation in mice

The progressive enhancement in the ambulation increase caused by the repeated five-time dosings of cocaine (10 mg/kg SC) at 3- to 4-day intervals was dose dependently reduced by simultaneous administration with the selective dopamine D1 and D2 receptor antagonists, SCH 23390; R(+)-7-chloro-8-hydroxy-1-phenyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-3-benzazepine (0.01, 0.03, and 0.1 mg/kg SC) and YM-09151-2 (nemonapride); cis-N-(1-benzyl-2-methylpyrrolidin-3-yl)-5-chloro-2-methoxy-4- methylaminobenzamide (0.01, 0.03, and 0.1 mg/kg SC), respectively. However, the mice given cocaine with SCH 23390 (0.03 mg/kg) or YM-09151-2 (0.03 and 0.1 mg/kg) demonstrated significantly higher sensitivity than the mice given cocaine alone to challenge cocaine. Both 2-h and 24-h posttreatments with SCH 23390 (0.01-0.1 mg/kg) after each cocaine administration, at which the acute stimulant effect of cocaine had disappeared, significantly and dose dependently enhanced the cocaine sensitization. In contrast, 2-h, but not 24-h, posttreatment with YM-09151-2 (0.01-0.1 mg/kg), slightly retarded the induction of cocaine sensitization. The present results suggest that the blockade of dopamine D1 receptors is responsible for a significant enhancement in the cocaine sensitization, independent of the timings of its administration, whereas the blockade of dopamine D2 receptors elicits time-dependent alterations in the cocaine sensitization, a strong enhancement in the simultaneous administration schedule, but a slight retardation in the early posttreatment schedule.

Contrasting effects on methamphetamine sensitization of ceruletide, a cholecystokinin-like decapeptide, and haloperidol

Ceruletide, a cholecystokinin-like decapeptide, and haloperidol show neuroleptic actions through inhibition of dopamine release and blockade of dopamine receptors, respectively. In this study, the effects of both drugs on methamphetamine sensitization were assessed by means of ambulation in mice. The enhancement in ambulation increase caused by five repeated administrations of methamphetamine (2 mg/kg, SC) at 3- to 4-day intervals was dose-dependently reduced when it was administered simultaneously with ceruletide (0.01-0.1 mg/kg, SC) or haloperidol (0.03-0.3 mg/kg, SC). However, only haloperidol could inhibit the induction of methamphetamine sensitization as assessed by challenge with methamphetamine alone. Post-treatment with ceruletide (0.03 mg/kg) 3 h after each methamphetamine accelerated, whereas such post-treatment with ceruletide (0.1 mg/kg) or haloperidol (0.03-0.3 mg/kg) delayed, the induction of methamphetamine sensitization. On the other hand, mice given five pretreatments with ceruletide (0.01-0.1 mg/kg) or haloperidol (0.03-0.3 mg/kg) at 3- to 4-day intervals did not exhibit any significant change in the sensitivity to methamphetamine. The present results suggest that, in contrast to the dose-dependent inhibition of methamphetamine sensitization in the simultaneous administration and post-treatment schedules, although both drugs can antagonize the acute stimulant effect of methamphetamine.

Inhibition of methamphetamine sensitization by post-methamphetamine treatment with SCH 23390 or haloperidol

Methamphetamine (2 mg/kg SC) increased ambulation in mice for about 3 h, with a peak effect at around 40 min after the administration, and its repeated administration induced sensitization. Both SCH 23390 (0.03 mg/kg SC) and haloperidol (0.4 mg/kg SC), dopamine D1 and D2 receptor antagonists, respectively, completely inhibited not only the acute stimulant effect of methamphetamine but also its sensitization when repeated methamphetamine was repeatedly combined with either of these drugs. Moreover, treatment with SCH 23390 2-5 h or haloperidol 1-5 h after each methamphetamine administration significantly antagonized methamphetamine sensitization. The maximal inhibitory effect was observed in the schedules of 3-h post-methamphetamine treatment for both drugs. However, treatments with SCH 23390 or haloperidol at 0.5 h, 6 h and 24 h after methamphetamine had no such inhibitory effect. The mice treated with SCH 23390 or haloperidol after each saline administration (the control administration for methamphetamine) did not show significant change in the sensitivity to methamphetamine. These results suggest that methamphetamine has an effect on both dopamine D1 and D2 receptors for several hours even after cessation of its acute stimulant effect, and that such an effect is involved in the induction of sensitization to the stimulant effect of methamphetamine on ambulation in mice.

Modification of morphine sensitization by opioid and dopamine receptor antagonists: evaluation by studying ambulation in mice

The repeated administration of morphine (10 mg/kg s.c.) at 3- to 4-day intervals caused sensitization to its ambulation-increasing effect. A mu-opioid receptor antagonist naloxone (0.03-1 mg/kg s.c.), and dopamine D1 and D2 receptor antagonists SCH 23390; R-(+)-7-chloro-8-hydroxy-1-phenyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-3-benzazepine HCl (0.01-0.1 mg/kg s.c.) and YM-09151-2 (nemonapride); cis-N-(1-benzyl-2-methylpyrrolidin-3-yl)-5-chloro-2-methoxy-4- methylaminobenzamide (0.003-0.1 mg/kg s.c.), respectively, dose dependently reduced the ambulation increase caused by morphine as well as the sensitization to morphine, when one of them was combined with morphine in the repeated administration. Treatment with SCH 23390 or YM-09151-2, but not naloxone, 3 h after each morphine administration tended to enhance the morphine sensitization. Furthermore, when YM-09151-2 (0.1 mg/kg) was repeatedly administered to the morphine-naive mice 5 times at 3- to 4-day intervals, these mice showed a significant increase in morphine sensitivity. Although the morphine sensitization was partially reversible, repeated (5 times) treatment of the morphine-sensitized mice with SCH 23390 (0.1 mg/kg) resulted in a further enhancement in morphine sensitivity. The same treatment with YM-09151-2 (0.03 and 0.1 mg/kg) tended to increase the sensitivity. These results suggest that, in terms of ambulation in mice, an enhancement of dopaminergic neurotransmission through the agonistic action on mu-opioid receptors is responsible for induction of morphine sensitization.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Roles of dopamine D1 receptors in striatal fos protein induction associated with methamphetamine behavioral sensitization in rats

To elucidate the roles of dopamine D1 and D2 receptors in mediating strial Fos protein induction and behavioral sensitization after methamphetamine administration, we examined the effects of the D1 receptor antagonist SCH 23390 and D2 receptor antagonist sulpiride on these phenomena in rats. Intraperitoneal administration of 5.0 mg/kg methamphetamine produced a significant increase in Fos-immunoreactive cells in the medial striatum. Prior exposure to 5.0 mg/kg methamphetamine enhanced ipsilateral rotational behavior in response to subsequent methamphetamine administration in unilateral nigral-lesioned rats (sensitization). Pretreatment with SCH 23390 (0.32 mg/kg IP) suppressed significantly the expression of striatal Fos protein and the development of acute behavioral sensitization following a single injection of 5.0 mg/kg methamphetamine. Sulpiride (50 mg/kg IP) was also effective in suppressing methamphetamine behavioral sensitization, but did not affect the striatal Fos induction. These results suggest that dopamine D1 receptor-mediated mechanisms are involved in the striatal Fos protein induction associated with behavioral sensitization following exposure to methamphetamine.

Risperidone prevents the development of supersensitivity, but not tolerance, to phencyclidine in rats treated with subacute phencyclidine

We investigated whether risperidone, a 5-HT2/dopamine-D2 receptor antagonist, inhibits the development of tolerance and supersensitivity to PCP and whether subacute administration of PCP with risperidone affects the [3H]MK-801 binding in rat brain, in comparison with dopamine-D2 receptor antagonist haloperidol and 5-HT2 receptor antagonist ritanserin. In rats treated with PCP (10 mg/kg, i.p.) for 14 days, PCP (10 mg/kg, i.p.)-induced hyperlocomotion, rearing and sniffing were potentiated (supersensitivity), and head-weaving, head-twitch, backpedalling and turning were diminished (tolerance). The development of supersensitivity to PCP was blocked by oral co-administration of risperidone (2.4 mg/kg, p.o.) and haloperidol (1.0 mg/kg, p.o.) for 14 days, but not ritanserin (10 mg/kg, p.o.) and risperidone (0.8 mg/kg, p.o.), while no drugs prevented the development of tolerance to PCP. Both risperidone (2.4 mg/kg, p.o.) and haloperidol (1.0 mg/kg, p.o.) also inhibited the cross-supersensitivity to methamphetamine (MAP; 2.5 mg/kg, i.p.)-induced rearing in rats treated with PCP for 14 days. The profiles of [3H]MK-801 binding in discrete brain areas did not change after subacute administration of PCP alone or in combination with risperidone, haloperidol or ritanserin for 14 days. Therefore, it is suggested that subacute administration of PCP may cause functional changes in the dopaminergic neuronal transmission under conditions where the binding of [3H]MK-801 in discrete brain areas is unchanged, and that co-administration of risperidone may block these PCP-induced changes in neuronal function.

Can posttreatment with the selective dopamine D2 antagonist, YM-09151-2, inhibit induction of methamphetamine sensitization? Evaluation by ambulatory activity in mice

Effects of YM-09151-2; cis-N-(1-benzyl-2-methyl pyrrolidin-3-yl)-5-chloro-2-methoxy-4-methylaminobenzamide (YM), a potent and selective dopamine D2 antagonist, on sensitization to methamphetamine (MAP) were investigated by means of ambulatory activity in mice. YM (0.003-0.03 mg/kg SC) reduced not only the acute ambulation-increasing effect of MAP (2 mg/kg SC) but also the induction of MAP sensitization when it was simultaneously administered with MAP in the repeated administration at 3-4 day intervals. Moreover, the post 3-h treatment with YM (0.01 and 0.03 mg/kg) following each MAP administration, at which time the acute ambulation-increasing effect of MAP almost disappeared, significantly and dose dependently inhibited the induction of MAP sensitization. The post 24-h treatment with YM did not show such effect. The present results suggest that blockade of the dopamine D2 receptors during postearly period following MAP administration is responsible for protecting the induction of MAP sensitization by means of ambulatory activity in mice.

Early post-treatment with haloperidol retards induction of methamphetamine sensitization in mice

The repeated administration of methamphetamine (2 mg/kg s.c.) at 3- to 4-day intervals induced sensitization to its ambulation-increasing effect in mice. When the simultaneous administration of methamphetamine with haloperidol (0.025, 0.1 and 0.4 mg/kg s.c.) was carried out, the acute ambulation-increasing effect as well as the development of sensitization were haloperidol-dose-dependently inhibited. Moreover, treatment with haloperidol (0.1 and 0.4 mg/kg) 3 h following each methamphetamine administration, which per se did not affect the acute ambulation increase caused by methamphetamine, could protect against the induction of methamphetamine sensitization in a dose-dependent manner, whereas treatment with haloperidol after 24 h did not show such protective action. The present results suggest that blockade of the dopamine receptors at an early period following each administration of methamphetamine may be responsible for the delay in development of methamphetamine sensitization as expressed by ambulatory activity of mice.