Reciprocal interaction between glutamate and dopamine in the pars reticulata of the rat substantia nigra: a microdialysis study

Involvement of the dopaminergic system in the reward-related behavior of pregabalin

There has been an increase in cases of drug addiction and prescription drug abuse worldwide. Recently, pregabalin abuse has been a focus for many healthcare agencies, as highlighted by epidemiological studies. We previously evaluated the possibility of pregabalin abuse using the conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm. We observed that a 60 mg/kg dose could induce CPP in mice and that pregabalin-rewarding properties were mediated through glutamate neurotransmission. Notably, the dopaminergic reward circuitry is also known to play a crucial role in medication-seeking behavior. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the possible involvement of dopaminergic receptor-1 in pregabalin-induced CPP. Mice were randomly allocated to receive saline or the dopamine-1 receptor antagonist SKF-83566 (0.03 mg/kg, intraperitoneal). After 30 min, the mice received either saline or pregabalin (60 mg/kg) during the conditioning phase. Among the control groups that received saline or SKF-83566, the time spent in the two conditioning chambers was not significantly altered. However, among the pregabalin-treated group, there was a marked increase in the time spent in the drug-paired chamber compared to the time spent in the vehicle-paired chamber. Notably, blocking dopamine-1 receptors with SKF-83566 completely prevented pregabalin-induced place preference, thus demonstrating the engagement of the dopaminergic system in pregabalin-induced reward-related behavior.

Coexistence of D3 R typical and atypical signaling in striatonigral neurons during dopaminergic denervation. Correlation with D3 nf expression changes

Dopamine D₃ R are widely expressed in basal ganglia where interact with D₁ R. D₃ R potentiate cAMP accumulation and GABA release stimulated by D₁ R in striatonigral neurons through "atypical" signaling. During dopaminergic denervation, D₃ R signaling changes to a "typical" in which antagonizes the effects of D₁ R, the mechanisms of this switching are unknown. D₃ nf splice variant regulates membrane anchorage and function of D₃ R and decreases in denervation; thus, it is possible that D₃ R signaling switching correlates with changes in D₃ nf expression and increases of membranal D₃ R that mask D₃ R atypical effects. We performed experiments in unilaterally 6-hydroxydopamine lesioned rats and found a decrease in mRNA and protein of D₃ nf, but not of D₃ R in the denervated striatum. Proximity ligation assay showed that D₃ R-D₃ nf interaction decreased after denervation, whereas binding revealed an increased B_max in D₃ R. The new D₃ R antagonized cAMP accumulation and GABA release stimulated by D₁ R; however, in the presence of N-Ethylmaleimide (NEM), to block G_i protein signaling, activation of D₃ R produced its atypical signaling stimulating D₁ R effects. Finally, we investigated if the typical and atypical effects of D₃ R modulating GABA release are capable of influencing motor behavior. Injections of D₃ R agonist into denervated nigra decreased D₁ R agonist-induced turning behavior but potentiated it in the presence of NEM. Our data indicate the coexistence of D₃ R typical and atypical signaling in striatonigral neurons during denervation that correlated with changes in the ratio of expression of D₃ nf and D₃ R isoforms. The coexistence of both atypical and typical signaling during denervation influences motor behavior.

Blockade of Intranigral and Systemic D3 Receptors Stimulates Motor Activity in the Rat Promoting a Reciprocal Interaction among Glutamate, Dopamine, and GABA

In vivo activation of dopamine D3 receptors (D3Rs) depresses motor activity. D3Rs are widely expressed in subthalamic, striatal, and dendritic dopaminergic inputs into the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr). In vitro studies showed that nigral D3Rs modulate their neurotransmitter release; thus, it could be that these changes in neurotransmitter levels modify the discharge of nigro-thalamic neurons and, therefore, motor behavior. To determine how the in vitro responses correspond to the in vivo responses, we examined the effect of intra-nigral and systemic blockade of D3Rs in the interstitial content of glutamate, dopamine, and GABA within the SNr using microdialysis coupled to motor activity determinations in freely moving rats. Intranigral unilateral blockade of D3R with GR 103,691 increased glutamate, dopamine, and GABA. Increments correlated with increased ambulatory distance, non-ambulatory activity, and induced contralateral turning. Concomitant blockade of D3R with D1R by perfusion of SCH 23390 reduced the increase of glutamate; prevented the increment of GABA, but not of dopamine; and abolished behavioral effects. Glutamate stimulates dopamine release by NMDA receptors, while blockade with kynurenic acid prevented the increase in dopamine and, in turn, of GABA and glutamate. Finally, systemic administration of D3R selective antagonist U 99194A increased glutamate, dopamine, and GABA in SNr and stimulated motor activity. Blockade of intra-nigral D1R with SCH 23390 prior to systemic U 99194A diminished increases in neurotransmitter levels and locomotor activity. These data highlight the pivotal role of presynaptic nigral D3 and D1R in the control of motor activity and help to explain part of the effects of the in vivo administration of D3R agents.

Presynaptic cannabinoid CB2 receptors modulate [3 H]-Glutamate release at subthalamo-nigral terminals of the rat

Recent studies suggested the expression of CB2 receptors in neurons of the CNS, however, most of these studies have only explored one aspect of the receptors, i.e., expression of protein, messenger RNA, or functional response, and more complete studies appear to be needed to establish adequately their role in the neuronal function. Electron microscopy studies showed the presence of CB2r in asymmetric terminals of the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr), and its mRNA appeared is expressed in the subthalamic nucleus. Here, we explore the expression, source, and functional effects of such receptors by different experimental approaches. Through PCR and immunochemistry, we showed mRNA and protein for CB2rs in slices and primary neuronal cultures from subthalamus. GW833972A, GW405833, and JHW 133, three CB2r agonists dose-dependent inhibited K⁺ -induced [³ H]-Glutamate release in slices of SNr, and the two antagonist/inverse agonists, JTE-907 and AM630, but not AM281, a CB1r antagonist, prevented GW833972A effect. Subthalamus lesions with kainic acid prevented GW833972A inhibition on release and decreased CB2r protein in nigral synaptosomes, thus nigral CB2rs originate in subthalamus. Inhibition of [³ H]-Glutamate release was PTX- and gallein-sensitive, suggesting a Gi_βγ -mediated effect. P/Q Ca²⁺ -type channel blocker, ω-Agatoxin-TK, also inhibited the [³ H]-Glutamate release, this effect was occluded with GW833972A inhibition, indicating that the βγ subunit effect is exerted on Ca²⁺ channel activity. Finally, microinjections of GW833972A in SNr induced contralateral turning. Our data showed that presynaptic CB2rs inhibit [³ H]-Glutamate release in subthalamo-nigral terminals by P/Q-channels modulation through the Gi_βγ subunit and suggested their participation in motor behavior.

Ethanol-induced alterations of amino acids measured by in vivo microdialysis in rats: a meta-analysis

PURPOSE

In recent years in vivo microdialysis has become an important method in research studies investigating the alterations of neurotransmitters in the extracellular fluid of the brain. Based on the major involvement of glutamate and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in mediating a variety of alcohol effects in the mammalian brain, numerous microdialysis studies have focused on the dynamical behavior of these systems in response to alcohol.

METHODS

Here we performed multiple meta-analyses on published datasets from the rat brain: (i) we studied basal extracellular concentrations of glutamate and GABA in brain regions that belong to a neurocircuitry involved in neuropsychiatric diseases, especially in alcoholism (Noori et al., Addict Biol 17:827-864, 2012); (ii) we examined the effect of acute ethanol administration on glutamate and GABA levels within this network and (iii) we studied alcohol withdrawal-induced alterations in glutamate and GABA levels within this neurocircuitry.

RESULTS

For extraction of basal concentrations of these neurotransmitters, datasets of 6932 rats were analyzed and the absolute basal glutamate and GABA levels were estimated for 18 different brain sites. In response to different doses of acute ethanol administration, datasets of 529 rats were analyzed and a non-linear dose response (glutamate and GABA release) relationship was observed in several brain sites. Specifically, glutamate in the nucleus accumbens shows a decreasing logarithmic dose response curve. Finally, regression analysis of 11 published reports employing brain microdialysis experiments in 104 alcohol-dependent rats reveals very consistent augmented extracellular glutamate and GABA levels in various brain sites that correlate with the intensity of the withdrawal response were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, our results provide standardized basal values for future experimental and in silico studies on neurotransmitter release in the rat brain and may be helpful to understand the effect of ethanol on neurotransmitter release. Furthermore, this study illustrates the benefit of meta-analyses using the generalization of a wide range of preclinical data.

Intrinsic and integrative properties of substantia nigra pars reticulata neurons

The GABA projection neurons of the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr) are output neurons for the basal ganglia and thus critical for movement control. Their most striking neurophysiological feature is sustained, spontaneous high frequency spike firing. A fundamental question is: what are the key ion channels supporting the remarkable firing capability in these neurons? Recent studies indicate that these neurons express tonically active type 3 transient receptor potential (TRPC3) channels that conduct a Na-dependent inward current even at hyperpolarized membrane potentials. When the membrane potential reaches -60 mV, a voltage-gated persistent sodium current (I(NaP)) starts to activate, further depolarizing the membrane potential. At or slightly below -50 mV, the large transient voltage-activated sodium current (I(NaT)) starts to activate and eventually triggers the rapid rising phase of action potentials. SNr GABA neurons have a higher density of I(NaT), contributing to the faster rise and larger amplitude of action potentials, compared with the slow-spiking dopamine neurons. I(NaT) also recovers from inactivation more quickly in SNr GABA neurons than in nigral dopamine neurons. In SNr GABA neurons, the rising phase of the action potential triggers the activation of high-threshold, inactivation-resistant Kv3-like channels that can rapidly repolarize the membrane. These intrinsic ion channels provide SNr GABA neurons with the ability to fire spontaneous and sustained high frequency spikes. Additionally, robust GABA inputs from direct pathway medium spiny neurons in the striatum and GABA neurons in the globus pallidus may inhibit and silence SNr GABA neurons, whereas glutamate synaptic input from the subthalamic nucleus may induce burst firing in SNr GABA neurons. Thus, afferent GABA and glutamate synaptic inputs sculpt the tonic high frequency firing of SNr GABA neurons and the consequent inhibition of their targets into an integrated motor control signal that is further fine-tuned by neuromodulators including dopamine, serotonin, endocannabinoids, and H₂O₂.

Dopamine D4 receptor stimulation in GABAergic projections of the globus pallidus to the reticular thalamic nucleus and the substantia nigra reticulata of the rat decreases locomotor activity

Dopamine D4 receptors are localized in the GABAergic projections that globus pallidus (GP) neurons send to the reticular nucleus of the thalamus (RTN), the substantia nigra reticulata (SNr) and the subthalamic nucleus (STN). Deficient D4 function in this network could lead to hyperactivity and thus be important in generating some of the symptoms of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), a condition associated with polymorphisms of dopamine D4 receptors. It is then, unexpected that systemic injections of D4 ligands have no significant effects on the motor activity of normal rats. We further examined this issue by microinjecting D4 ligands and psychostimulant drugs in relevant structures. Interstitial dopamine overflow in the RTN was increased by reverse microdialysis of both methylphenidate and methamphetamine. Intranuclear injections in the RTN of methylphenidate, methamphetamine and the selective D4 agonist PD 168,077 reduced motor activity. Intraperitoneal injection of the D4 antagonist L 745,870 blocked the effects of these intranuclear injections. Similarly, intranuclear injections of PD 168,077 in the SNr inhibited motor activity, an effect that was also blocked by intraperitoneal L 745,870. In rats with 6-OHDA induced hemiparkinsonism, intraperitoneal PD 168,077 produced ipsilateral turning behavior that was blocked by L 745,870. Our results suggest that diminished D4 signaling in GP projections could lead to increased traffic through the relay nuclei of the thalamus and hyperactivity. Hence this basal-ganglia-thalamus network may be one of the targets of the beneficial effects that psychostimulant drugs have in disorders associated with D4 receptor abnormalities. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder'.

Extrastriatal dopaminergic circuits of the Basal Ganglia

The basal ganglia are comprised of the striatum, the external and internal segment of the globus pallidus (GPe and GPi, respectively), the subthalamic nucleus (STN), and the substantia nigra pars compacta and reticulata (SNc and SNr, respectively). Dopamine has long been identified as an important modulator of basal ganglia function in the striatum, and disturbances of striatal dopaminergic transmission have been implicated in diseases such as Parkinson's disease (PD), addiction and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. However, recent evidence suggests that dopamine may also modulate basal ganglia function at sites outside of the striatum, and that changes in dopaminergic transmission at these sites may contribute to the symptoms of PD and other neuropsychiatric disorders. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the anatomy, functional effects and behavioral consequences of the dopaminergic innervation to the GPe, GPi, STN, and SNr. Further insights into the dopaminergic modulation of basal ganglia function at extrastriatal sites may provide us with opportunities to develop new and more specific strategies for treating disorders of basal ganglia dysfunction.

Ultrastructural localization and function of dopamine D1-like receptors in the substantia nigra pars reticulata and the internal segment of the globus pallidus of parkinsonian monkeys

The motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD) are commonly attributed to striatal dopamine loss, but reduced dopamine innervation of basal ganglia output nuclei, the internal globus pallidus (GPi) and the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr) may also contribute to symptoms and signs of PD. Both structures express dopamine D1 and D5 receptors under normal conditions, and we have recently demonstrated that their local activation reduces neuronal discharge rates and enhances bursts and oscillatory activity in both nuclei of normal monkeys [M.A. Kliem et al. (2007)J. Neurophysiol., 89, 1489-1500]. Here, we determined the ultrastructural localization and function of D1-like receptors in 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-treated parkinsonian monkeys. In both normal and MPTP-treated monkeys, most of the D1 and D5 receptor immunoreactivity was associated with unmyelinated axons, but we also found significant postsynaptic D5 receptor immunostaining in dendrites of GPi and SNr neurons. A significant proportion of axonal D1 immunostaining was bound to the plasma membrane in both normal and MPTP-treated monkeys. Local microinjections of the D1/D5 receptor agonist SKF82958 significantly reduced discharge rates in GPi and SNr neurons, while they increased burst firing and oscillatory activity in the 3-15-Hz band in SNr, but not in GPi, of parkinsonian monkeys. Together with our recent findings from normal monkeys, these data provide evidence that functional D1/D5 receptors are expressed in GPi and SNr in both normal and parkinsonian states, and that their activation by endogenous dopamine (under normal conditions) or dopamine receptor agonists (in parkinsonism) may regulate basal ganglia outflow.

Comparative Ultrastructural Analysis of D1 and D5 Dopamine Receptor Distribution in the Substantia Nigra and Globus Pallidus of Monkeys

Dopamine acts through the D1-like (D1, D5) and D2-like (D2, D3, D4) receptor families. Various studies have shown a preponderance of presynaptic dopamine D1 receptors on axons and terminals in the internal globus pallidus (GPi) and substantia nigra reticulata (SNr), but little is known about D5 receptors distribution in these brain regions. In order to further characterize the potential targets whereby dopamine could mediate its effects in basal ganglia output nuclei, we undertook a comparative electron microscopic analysis of D1 and D5 receptors immunoreactivity in the GPi and SNr of rhesus monkeys. At the light microscopic level, D1 receptor labeling was confined to small punctate elements, while D5 receptor immunoreactivity was predominantly expressed in cellular and dendritic processes throughout the SNr and GPi. At the electron microscopic level, 90% of D1 receptor labeling was found in unmyelinated axons or putative GABAergic terminals in both basal ganglia output nuclei. In contrast, D5 receptor labeling showed a different pattern of distribution. Although the majority (65-75%) of D5 receptor immunoreactivity was also found in unmyelinated axons and terminals in GPi and SNr, significant D5 receptor immunolabeling was also located in dendritic and glial processes. Immunogold studies showed that about 50% of D1 receptor immunoreactivity in axons was bound to the plasma membrane providing functional sites for D1 receptor-mediated effects on transmitter release in GPi and SNr. These findings provide evidence for the existence of extrastriatal pre- and post-synaptic targets through which dopamine and drugs acting at D1-like receptors may regulate basal ganglia outflow and possibly exert some of their anti-parkinsonian effects.

Transgenic reporter mice as tools for studies of transplantability and connectivity of dopamine neuron precursors in fetal tissue grafts

Cell therapy for Parkinson's disease (PD) is based on the idea that new midbrain dopamine (mDA) neurons, implanted directly into the brain of the patient, can structurally and functionally replace those lost to the disease. Clinical trials have provided proof-of-principle that the grafted mDA neurons can survive and function after implantation in order to provide sustained improvement in motor function for some patients. Nonetheless, there are a number of issues limiting the application of this approach as mainstream therapy, including: the use of human fetal tissue as the only safe and reliable source of transplantable mDA neurons, and variability in the therapeutic outcome. Here we review recent progress in this area from investigations using rodent models of PD, paying particular attention to the use of transgenic reporter mice as tools for neural transplantation studies. Cell type-specific expression of reporter genes, such as green fluorescent protein, affords valuable technical advantages in transplantation experiments, such as the ability to selectively isolate specific cell fractions from mixed populations prior to grafting, and the unambiguous visualization of graft-derived dopamine neuron fiber patterns after transplantation. The results from these investigations have given new insights into the transplantability of mDA precursors as well as their connectivity after grafting and have interesting implications for the development of stem cell based approaches for the treatment of PD.

NMDA-mediated release of glutamate and GABA in the subthalamic nucleus is mediated by dopamine: an in vivo microdialysis study in rats

The present study investigated the effects of N-methyl-D-aspartic acid.H2O (NMDA) on the dopamine, glutamate and GABA release in the subthalamic nucleus (STN) by using in vivo microdialysis in rats. NMDA (100 micromol/L) perfused through the microdialysis probe evoked an increase in extracellular dopamine in the STN of the intact rat of about 170%. This coincided with significant increases in both extracellular glutamate (350%) and GABA (250%). The effect of NMDA perfusion on neurotransmitter release at the level of the STN was completely abolished by co-perfusion of the selective NMDA-receptor antagonist MK-801 (10 micromol/L), whereas subthalamic perfusion of MK-801 alone had no effect on extracellular neurotransmitter concentrations. Furthermore, NMDA induced increases in glutamate were abolished by both SCH23390 (8 micromol/L), a selective D1 antagonist, and remoxipride (4 micromol/L), a selective D2 antagonist. The NMDA induced increase in GABA was abolished by remoxipride but not by SCH23390. Perfusion of the STN with SCH23390 or remoxipride alone had no effect on extracellular neurotransmitter concentrations. The observed effects in intact animals depend on the nigral dopaminergic innervation, as dopamine denervation, by means of 6-hydroxydopamine lesioning of the substantia nigra, clearly abolished the effects of NMDA on neurotransmitter release at the level of the STN. Our work points to a complex interaction between dopamine, glutamate and GABA with a crucial role for dopamine at the level of the STN.

Activation of nigral and pallidal dopamine D1-like receptors modulates basal ganglia outflow in monkeys

Studies of the effects of dopamine in the basal ganglia have focused on the striatum, whereas the functions of dopamine released in the internal pallidal segment (GPi) or in the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr) have received less attention. Anatomic and biochemical investigations have demonstrated the presence of dopamine D1-like receptors (D1LRs) in GPi and SNr, which are primarily located on axons and axon terminals of the GABAergic striatopallidal and striatonigral afferents. Our experiments assessed the effects of D1LR ligands in GPi and SNr on local gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels and neuronal activity in these nuclei in rhesus monkeys. Microinjections of the D1LR receptor agonist SKF82958 into GPi and SNr significantly reduced discharge rates in GPi and SNr, whereas injections of the D1LR antagonist SCH23390 increased firing in the majority of GPi neurons. D1LR activation also increased bursting and oscillations in neuronal discharge in the 3- to 15-Hz band in both structures, whereas D1LR blockade had the opposite effects in GPi. Microdialysis measurements of GABA concentrations in GPi and SNr showed that the D1LR agonist increased the level of the transmitter. Both findings are compatible with the hypothesis that D1LR activation leads to GABA release from striatopallidal or striatonigral afferents, which may secondarily reduce firing of basal ganglia output neurons. The antagonist experiments suggest that a dopaminergic "tone" exists in GPi. Our results support the finding that D1LR activation may have powerful effects on GPi and SNr neurons and may mediate some of the effects of dopamine replacement therapies in Parkinson's disease.

Localization of D1a dopamine receptors on cell bodies and axonal endings in the substantia nigra pars reticulata of the rat

In the present study, we analyzed the localization of D1a receptors within the rat substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr) using specific D1a immunochemistry at the ultrastructural level and RT-PCR. At the electron microscopic level, D1a receptors were strongly associated with axons and axonal endings in the SNr, but also with numerous glutamic acid decarboxylase-positive dendrites and neuronal cell bodies. This neuronal expression of D1a receptors was confirmed using RT-PCR. G(alphaolf) protein-specific immunostaining displayed a similar distribution in dendrites and cell bodies to that of D1a receptors. The localization of D1a receptors in both GABAergic cell bodies and terminals is in accordance with the well known complex action of dopamine in the SNr. Moreover, the intracytoplasmic localization of D1a receptors in cell bodies and dendrites that we observed suggests that these receptors are only effective in specific conditions, or are transported to different nigral targets where they may have a presynaptic function.

Insights into the Role of Dopamine Receptor Systems in Learning and Memory

It is well established that learning and memory are complex processes involving and recruiting different brain modulatory neurotransmitter systems. Considerable evidence points to the involvement of dopamine in various aspects of cognition, and interest has been focused on investigating the clinical relevance of dopamine systems to age-related cognitive decline and manifestations of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. In the past decade or so, in spite of the molecular cloning of the five dopamine receptor subtypes, their specific roles in brain function remained inconclusive due to the lack of completely selective ligands that could distinguish between the members of the D1-like and D2-like dopamine receptor families. One of the most important advances in the field of dopamine research has been the generation of mutant mouse models permitting evaluation of the dopaminergic system using gene targeting technologies. These mouse models represent an important approach to explore the functional roles of closely related receptor subtypes. In this review, we present and discuss evidence on the role of dopamine receptors in different aspects of learning and memory at the cellular, molecular and behavioral levels. We compare evidence using conventional pharmacological, lesion or electrophysiological studies with results from mice with targeted deletions of different subtypes of dopamine receptor genes. We particularly focus on dopamine D1 and D2 receptors in an effort to delineate their specific roles in various aspects of cognitive function. We provide strong evidence, from our own recent work as well as others, that dopamine is part of the network that plays a very important role in cognitive function, and that although multiple dopamine receptor subtypes contribute to different aspects of learning and memory, the D1 receptor seems to play a more prominent role in mediating plasticity and specific aspects of cognitive function, including spatial learning and memory processes, reversal learning, extinction learning, and incentive learning.

Subthalamic stimulation-induced forelimb dyskinesias are linked to an increase in glutamate levels in the substantia nigra pars reticulata

The neurobiological mechanisms by which high-frequency stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus (STN-HFS) alleviates the motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD) remain unclear. In this study, we analyzed the effects of STN-HFS on motor behavior in intact or hemiparkinsonian rats (6-hydroxydopamine lesion of the substantia nigra pars compacta) and investigated the correlation between these effects and extracellular glutamate (Glu) and GABA levels, assessed by intracerebral microdialysis in the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr). STN-HFS at an intensity corresponding to the threshold inducing contralateral forelimb dyskinesia, increased Glu levels in the SNr of both intact and hemiparkinsonian rats. In contrast, STN-HFS at half this intensity did not affect Glu levels in the SNr in intact or hemiparkinsonian rats but increased GABA levels in hemiparkinsonian rats only. STN-HFS-induced forelimb dyskinesia was blocked by microinjection of the Glu receptor antagonist kynurenate into the SNr and facilitated by microinjection of a mixture of the Glu receptor agonists AMPA and NMDA into the SNr. These new neurochemical data suggest that STN-HFS-induced forelimb dyskinesia is mediated by glutamate, probably via the direct activation of STN axons, shedding light on the mechanisms of STN-HFS in PD.

Dopamine action in the substantia nigra pars reticulata: iontophoretic studies in awake, unrestrained rats

Dopamine (DA) neurons located in the substantia nigra pars compacta release DA not only via axonal terminals, affecting neurotransmission within the striatum, but also via dendrites, some of which densely protrude into the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr). Although the interaction of dendritically released DA with somatodendritic autoreceptors regulates DA cell activity, released DA may also affect SNr neurons. These cells, however, lack postsynaptic DA receptors, making it unclear how locally released DA modulates their activity. Although previous work in brain slices suggests that DA might modulate the activity of GABA inputs, thus affecting SNr neurons indirectly, it remains unclear how increased or decreased DA release might affect these cells exposed to normal afferent inputs. To explore this issue, we examined the effects of iontophoretic DA and amphetamine on SNr neurons in awake, unrestrained rats. DA had no consistent effects on SNr cells but amphetamine, known to induce DA release, dose-dependently inhibited most of them. This effect was blocked by SCH23390, a selective D1 receptor blocker, which itself strongly increased neuronal discharge rate. As GABA input is a major factor regulating the activity of SNr neurons, our data suggest that dendritically released DA, by interacting with D1 receptors on striato-nigral and pallido-nigral afferents, is able to decrease this input, thus releasing SNr neurons from tonic, GABA-mediated inhibition. Surprisingly, a full DA receptor blockade (SCH23390 + eticlopride) did not result in the expected increase in SNr discharge rate, suggesting that other mechanisms are responsible for behavioral abnormalities following acute disruption of DA transmission.

Partial depletion of dopamine in substantia nigra impairs motor performance without altering striatal dopamine neurotransmission

Previous data indicate that the release of somatodendritic dopamine in substantia nigra influences motor activity and coordination, but the relative importance of somatodendritic dopamine release vs. terminal striatal dopamine release remains to be determined. We utilized simultaneous measurement of dopamine neurotransmission by microdialysis and motor performance assessment by rotarod test to investigate the effects of local dopamine depletion in rats. The vesicular monoamine transporter inhibitor tetrabenazine (100 microm) was administered locally in substantia nigra as well as in striatum. Nigral tetrabenazine administration decreased nigral dopamine dialysate concentrations to 7% of baseline and whole-tissue dopamine content by 60%. Nigral dopamine depletion was associated with a reduction in motor performance to 73 +/- 6% of pretreatment value, but did not alter dialysate dopamine concentrations in the ipsilateral striatum. Striatal tetrabenazine administration decreased striatal dopamine dialysate concentrations to 5% of baseline and doubled the somatodendritic dopamine response to motor activity, but it was not associated with changes in motor performance or dopamine content in striatal tissue. Simultaneous treatment of substantia nigra and striatum reduced motor performance to 58 +/- 5% of the pretreatment value. The results of this study indicate that partial depletion of nigral dopamine stores can significantly impair motor functions, and that increased nigral dopamine release can counteract minor impairments of striatal dopamine transmission.

L-DOPA inhibits depolarization-induced [3H]GABA release in the dopamine-denervated globus pallidus of the rat: the effect is dopamine independent and mediated by D2-like receptors

The effect of L-DOPA on [(3)H]GABA release in slices of globus pallidus from 6-OHDA-lesioned rats was studied. Release was evoked by high (15 mM) K(+). The lesion reduced dopamine content and dopamine synthesized from L-DOPA. The inhibition of DOPA decarboxylase blocked dopamine synthesis. Endogenous dopamine released by high K(+) inhibited [(3)H]GABA release in normal but not in lesioned slices. L-DOPA inhibited (IC(50) = 0.44 microM) evoked [(3)H]GABA release. The inhibition was via D2-like receptors but not mediated by dopamine. The turning behavior induced by L-DOPA methyl ester (25 mg/kg, i.p.) was not abolished by the DOPA decarboxylase inhibitor 3-hydroxybenzylhydrazine but in this condition it was abolished by sulpiride. Results suggest that L-DOPA acting as D2-like agonist inhibits GABA release in the rat globus pallidus and induces turning behavior in rats with unilateral lesions of the dopamine innervation. L-DOPA could control Parkinson's disease symptoms acting not only as dopamine precursor but also by itself.

Dopaminergic and GABAergic modulation of glutamate release from rat subthalamic nucleus efferents to the substantia nigra

The regulation of the glutamatergic projection from the subthalamic nucleus (STN) to the substantia nigra (SN) was investigated using dual-probe microdialysis in the awake behaving rat. Reverse dialysis of the cholinergic receptor agonist carbachol (1 mM) into the STN caused an increase in the extracellular concentrations of glutamate and dopamine in the SN. The increase in glutamate was transient and returned toward basal values despite the continued perfusions of the STN with carbachol. Carbachol-stimulated glutamate release was prolonged by perfusion of the selective D2 dopamine receptor antagonist raclopride (100 microM) into the SN and was attenuated by the perfusion of the selective D2-like receptor agonist quinpirole (10 microM). In contrast, perfusion of the D1 dopamine receptor antagonist SCH-23390 (100 microM) did not alter the carbachol-stimulated glutamate release even though it increased basal glutamate concentrations. Perfusion of the GABAA receptor antagonist bicuculline (10 microM) into the SN prolonged the carbachol-stimulated glutamate release in similar fashion as raclopride. The present findings suggest that somatodendritically released dopamine in the SN regulates glutamate release from subthalamic axon terminals by differentially activating dopamine D2 and D1 receptors. Activation of D2 heteroreceptors, located on STN axon terminals, provides a negative feedback control on stimulated subthalamic glutamate release, while D1 receptor activation preferentially regulates basal glutamate concentrations. The findings of the present study also indicate that GABA exerts an inhibitory control on glutamate release in the SN through GABAA receptors.

Control of the subthalamic innervation of substantia nigra pars reticulata by D1 and D2 dopamine receptors

The effects of activating dopaminergic D1 and D2 class receptors of the subthalamic projections that innervate the pars reticulata of the subtantia nigra (SNr) were explored in slices of the rat brain using the whole cell patch-clamp technique. Excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) that could be blocked by 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxalene-2,3-dione and D-(-)-2-amino-5-phosphonopentanoic acid were evoked onto reticulata GABAergic projection neurons by local field stimulation inside the subthalamic nucleus in the presence of bicuculline. Bath application of (RS)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-7,8-dihydroxy-1-phenyl-1H-3-benzazepine hydrochloride (SKF-38393), a dopaminergic D1-class receptor agonist, increased evoked EPSCs by approximately 30% whereas the D2-class receptor agonist, trans-(-)-4aR-4,4a,5,6,7,8,8a,9-octahydro-5-propyl-1H-pyrazolo(3,4-g)quinoline (quinpirole), reduced EPSCs by approximately 25%. These apparently opposing actions were blocked by the specific D1- and D2-class receptor antagonists: R-(+)-7-chloro-8-hydroxy-3-methyl-1-phenyl-2,3,4,5-tetra-hydro-1H-3-benzazepinehydrochloride (SCH 23390) and S-(-)-5-amino-sulfonyl-N-[(1-ethyl-2-pyrrolidinyl)-methyl]-2-methoxybenzamide (sulpiride), respectively. Both effects were accompanied by changes in the paired-pulse ratio, indicative of a presynaptic site of action. The presynaptic location of dopamine receptors at the subthalamonigral projections was confirmed by mean-variance analysis. The effects of both SKF-38393 and quinpirole could be observed on terminals contacting the same postsynaptic neuron. Sulpiride and SCH 23390 enhanced and reduced the evoked EPSC, respectively, suggesting a constitutive receptor activation probably arising from endogenous dopamine. These data suggest that dopamine presynaptically modulates the subthalamic projection that targets GABAergic neurons of the SNr. Implications of this modulation for basal ganglia function are discussed.

Apomorphine-induced alterations in striatal and substantia nigra pars reticulata glutamate following unilateral loss of striatal dopamine

We have reported time-dependent changes in extracellular glutamate within the striatum at 1 and 3 months following a unilateral lesion of the nigrostriatal pathway using the neurotoxin, 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) (Meshul, C.K., Emre, N., Nakamura, C.M., Allen, C., Donohue, M.K., Buckman, J.F., 1999. Time-dependent changes in striatal glutamate synapses following a 6-hydroxydopamine lesion. Neurosci. 88, 1-16.). The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of such a lesion on glutamate within the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SN-PR) and the effect of subchronic administration of the dopamine D-1/D-2 agonist, apomorphine, on extracellular glutamate within both the striatum and the SN-PR using in vivo microdialysis. One month after the lesion, there is an increase in extracellular glutamate within the striatum and apomorphine treatment leads to a further increase. Within the SN-PR, a loss of striatal dopamine leads to a decrease in extracellular glutamate, while apomorphine treatment leads to a further decrease in nigral glutamate. Three months after a 6-OHDA lesion, there is a decrease in extracellular striatal glutamate, with apomorphine administration leading to essentially no further change in glutamate. The loss of striatal dopamine increased extracellular glutamate within the SN-PR while apomorphine administration resulted in a decrease in extracellular glutamate back to the value observed in the control group. The data suggests that the increase in striatal glutamate 1 month following a 6-OHDA lesion alone or following subchronic apomorphine is consistent with the hypothesis that a decrease in glutamate within the SN-PR leads to activation of the thalamo-cortico-striatal pathway. The decrease in striatal glutamate 3 months after a nigrostriatal lesion is also consistent with the observed increase in extracellular glutamate within the SN-PR, thus leading to a decrease in output of the thalamo-cortico-striatal pathway.

Pallidal origin of GABA release within the substantia nigra pars reticulata during high-frequency stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus

High-frequency stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus (HFS-STN) is an effective treatment for alleviating the motor symptoms of parkinsonian patients. However, the neurochemical basis of its effects remains unknown. We showed previously that 1 h of HFS-STN in normal rats increases extracellular glutamate (Glu) level in the output nuclei of the STN, the globus pallidus (GP), and the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr), consistent with an increase in the activity of STN neurons. HFS-STN also increases GABA levels in the SNr, but the origin of this increase is unclear. We investigated the effectiveness of HFS-STN for improving Parkinson's disease symptoms, using intracerebral microdialysis to determine the extracellular Glu and GABA levels of the GP and SNr in response to HFS-STN in anesthetized hemiparkinsonian rats [6-hydroxydopamine lesion of the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc)]. Basal levels of Glu and GABA in the GP and SNr were significantly higher in hemiparkinsonian than in intact rats. HFS-STN did not affect extracellular Glu level in the SNr of hemiparkinsonian rats but doubled the level of GABA. Ibotenic acid lesion of the GP abolished the increase in GABA levels in the SNr induced by HFS-STN in SNc-lesioned rats. These results provide neurochemical confirmation of the hyperactivity of the STN after dopaminergic denervation and suggest that the therapeutic effects of HFS-STN may result partly from the stimulation of pallidonigral fibers, thereby revealing a potential role for pallidal GABA in the inhibition of basal ganglial output structures during HFS-STN.

High-frequency stimulation in Parkinson's disease: more or less?

Deep-brain stimulation at high frequency is now considered the most effective neurosurgical therapy for movement disorders. An electrode is chronically implanted in a particular area of the brain and, when continuously stimulated, it significantly alleviates motor symptoms. In Parkinson's disease, common target nuclei of high-frequency stimulation (HFS) are ventral thalamic nuclei and basal ganglia nuclei, such as the internal segment of the pallidum and the subthalamic nucleus (STN), with a preference for the STN in recent years. Two fundamental mechanisms have been proposed to underlie the beneficial effects of HFS: silencing or excitation of STN neurons. Relying on recent experimental data, we suggest that both are instrumental: HFS switches off a pathological disrupted activity in the STN (a 'less' mechanism) and imposes a new type of discharge in the upper gamma-band frequency that is endowed with beneficial effects (a 'more' mechanism). The intrinsic capacity of basal ganglia and particular STN neurons to generate oscillations and shift rapidly from a physiological to a pathogenic pattern is pivotal in the operation of these circuits in health and disease.

Novel Alternative Splicing Predicts a Truncated Isoform of the NMDA Receptor Subunit 1 (NR1) in Embryonic Rat Brain

The expression of mesencephalic brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been shown to be regulated by dopaminergic neuronal functioning and glutamate receptors (GluRs). In turn, BDNF participates in the regulation of mesencephalic GluRs' expression. In the present study we analyzed, using semi-quantitative RT-PCR, the effect of BDNF as well as of the GluRs agonists NMDA and trans-(+/-)-1-Amino-(1S,3R)-cyclopentane dicarboxylic acid (t-ACPD), on the expression levels of the NMDA GluR subunit 1 (NR1) mRNA, using rat cultured mesencephalic neurons. In the course of this study, a novel rat mRNA splice variant of NR1 was identified. This new NR1 mRNA isoform is characterized by the insertion of an 82 base pair intron containing an inframe stop codon, thus predicting the expression of a putative truncated protein of 465 amino acids. The RT-PCR and in situ hybridization reveals that the novel NR1 mRNA is expressed in various brain regions of the rat embryo, whereas no expression was detected in the adult rat brain. The modulation of the novel NR1 mRNA isoform by both BDNF and the metabotropic GluR agonist t-ACPD, suggests that the resulting putative NR1 truncated protein may be relevant in the regulatory network of glutamatergic neurotransmission in the developing central nervous system.

Functional interactions between somatodendritic dopamine release, glutamate receptors and brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression in mesencephalic structures of the brain

Dopaminergic nigrostriatal neurons may be considered as bipolar functional entities since they are endowed with the ability to synthesize, store and release the transmitter dopamine (DA) at the somatodendritic level in the substantia nigra (SN). Such dendritic DA release seems to be distinct from the transmitter release occurring at the axon terminal and seems to rely preferentially on volume transmission to exert its physiological effects. An increased glutamatergic (Gluergic) transmission into the SN facilitates such dendritic DA release via activation of NMDA-receptors (NMDA-Rs) and to a lesser extent through group II metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs). In addition, nigral mGluRs functionally interact with NMDA-Rs in the SN, further modulating the NMDA-R-mediated increase of DA release from dendrites in the SN. In turn, dendritically released DA may exert, via D1 receptors, a tonic inhibitory control upon nigral glutamate (Glu). Furthermore, released DA, via D2/D3 autoreceptors, produces an autoinhibitory effect upon DA cell firing and its own release process. An increased Gluergic transmission into the SN may also induce, via activation of NMDA-Rs, an augmented expression of different brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene transcripts in this brain area. Pharmacological evidence suggests that non-NMDA-Rs could also participate in the regulation of BDNF gene expression in the SN. Glu-mediated changes of nigral BDNF expression could regulate, in turn, the expression of important transmitter-related proteins in the SN, such as different NMDA-R subunits, mGluRs and DA-D3 receptors. In conclusion, Glu-DA-BDNF interactions in the SN may play an important role in modulating the flow of neuronal information in this brain structure under normal conditions, as well as during adaptive and plastic responses associated with various neurological and psychiatric disorders.

Dopamine and serotonin: influences on male sexual behavior

Steroid hormones regulate sexual behavior primarily by slow, genomically mediated effects. These effects are realized, in part, by enhancing the processing of relevant sensory stimuli, altering the synthesis, release, and/or receptors for neurotransmitters in integrative areas, and increasing the responsiveness of appropriate motor outputs. Dopamine has facilitative effects on sexual motivation, copulatory proficiency, and genital reflexes. Dopamine in the nigrostriatal tract influences motor activity; in the mesolimbic tract it activates numerous motivated behaviors, including copulation; in the medial preoptic area (MPOA) it controls genital reflexes, copulatory patterns, and specifically sexual motivation. Testosterone increases nitric oxide synthase in the MPOA; nitric oxide increases basal and female-stimulated dopamine release, which in turn facilitates copulation and genital reflexes. Serotonin (5-HT) is primarily inhibitory, although stimulation of 5-HT(2C) receptors increases erections and inhibits ejaculation, whereas stimulation of 5-HT(1A) receptors has the opposite effects: facilitation of ejaculation and, in some circumstances, inhibition of erection. 5-HT is released in the anterior lateral hypothalamus at the time of ejaculation. Microinjections of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors there delay the onset of copulation and delay ejaculation after copulation begins. One means for this inhibition is a decrease in dopamine release in the mesolimbic tract.

Dopamine receptor and transporter levels are altered in the brain of Purkinje Cell Degeneration mutant mice

The Purkinje Cell Degeneration (Nna1pcd, pcd) mutant mouse is mainly characterized by the complete, primary loss of the Purkinje cells and the secondary, partial, retrograde loss of the granule and inferior olive neurons and is considered a model of human degenerative ataxia. We determined, by in vitro quantitative autoradiography and in situ hybridization, the effects of the Purkinje cell deprivation on the dopaminergic system of the Nna1pcd mutant mouse. The dopamine transporters, as determined by [3H]WIN35428 binding, were increased compared with wild-type mice in the ventral mesencephalic dopaminergic nuclei and in the lateral striatum, motor cortex and septum. In the cerebellum of Nna1pcd mice, the dopamine transporters showed a significant increase in the deep cerebellar nuclei, but were significantly decreased in the molecular layer. The D1-like receptors, as determined by [3H]SCH23390 binding, increased significantly in the Nna1pcd substantia nigra. The D2/D3 receptors, as determined by [3H]raclopride binding, exhibited a significant decrease in lateral divisions of the striatum. Significant increases in D2-like receptors, as determined by [3H]nemonapride binding, were observed in most divisions of the striatum as well as in septum, hippocampus, and piriform cortex. This D2-like fraction most probably corresponds to the D4 receptor subtype. In the cerebellum of Nna1pcd mice, D2-like receptors were significantly decreased in the molecular layer. The results suggest an increased excitatory input on the dopaminergic mesencephalic neurons and an alteration of the dopaminergic neurotransmission in basal ganglia, cortical and limbic regions of the Nna1pcd mutant mouse. In the cerebellum, the significant downregulation of the dopamine transporters and D2-like receptors in the mutant cerebellar molecular layer is possibly due to the absence of the Purkinje cells.

Relative involvement of globus pallidus and subthalamic nucleus in the regulation of somatodendritic dopamine release in substantia nigra is dopamine-dependent

Previously, we have shown that GABA(A) receptors and glutamate receptors in substantia nigra play distinct roles in the regulation of somatodendritic dopamine release. GABAergic input to substantia nigra was found to be the primary determinant of the level of spontaneous somatodendritic dopamine release. In contrast, acute blockade of dopamine receptors by systemic haloperidol administration produced an increase in somatodendritic dopamine release in substantia nigra that was found to be dependent exclusively upon activation of nigral glutamate receptors. The focus of the present study was to identify anatomical structures that may participate in the differential regulation of somatodendritic dopamine release by GABA and glutamate under these two conditions. To this end, we pharmacologically inhibited the activity of either globus pallidus or subthalamic nucleus using microinfusion of the GABA(A) receptor agonist muscimol. The effects of these manipulations on spontaneous efflux of somatodendritic dopamine and on increases in this measure produced by systemic haloperidol administration were determined in ipsilateral substantia nigra using in vivo microdialysis. As observed previously, administration of haloperidol (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly increased extracellular dopamine in substantia nigra. Microinfusion of muscimol (400 ng/200 nl) into globus pallidus also produced a significant increase in somatodendritic dopamine efflux. When haloperidol was administered systemically in conjunction with microinfusion of muscimol into globus pallidus, an increase in nigral dopamine efflux was observed that was significantly greater than that which was produced singly by muscimol microinfusion into globus pallidus or by systemic haloperidol administration. The additive nature of the increases in somatodendritic dopamine release produced by these two manipulations indicates that independent neural circuitries may be involved. Inactivation of subthalamic nucleus by microinfusion of muscimol (200 ng/100 nl) had no effect on spontaneous somatodendritic dopamine efflux. Muscimol application into subthalamic nucleus, however, completely abolished the stimulatory effect of systemic haloperidol on dendritic dopamine efflux in substantia nigra. The present data extend our previous findings by demonstrating: 1) an important involvement of globus pallidus efferents in the GABAergic regulation of somatodendritic dopamine efflux in substantia nigra under normal conditions and, 2) an emergent predominant role of subthalamic nucleus efferents in the glutamate-dependent increase in somatodendritic dopamine efflux observed after systemic haloperidol administration. Thus, the relative influence of globus pallidus and subthalamic nucleus in the determination of the level of somatodendritic dopamine release in substantia nigra qualitatively varies as a function of dopamine receptor blockade. These findings are relevant to current models of basal ganglia function under both normal and pathological conditions, e.g. Parkinson's disease.

Somatodendritic dopamine release in rat substantia nigra influences motor performance on the accelerating rod

The physiological role of somatodendritic dopamine release in the rat substantia nigra was evaluated with a combination of dual probe microdialysis and simultaneous motor performance tests on an accelerating rod. Three main findings support a modulating influence of somatodendritic dopamine release on motor coordination. (1) The rod performance tests were associated with an increase in extracellular dopamine but not 5-hydroxytryptamine concentrations in substantia nigra and with increases in both dopamine and 5-hydroxytryptamine concentrations in the striatum. (2) Nigral application of dopamine antagonists without intrinsic activity resulted in changed performances on the accelerating rod. The response to nigral perfusion with low concentrations (0.1, 1.0 microM) of the D(2)/D(3)-antagonist raclopride consisted of an impairment in rod performance to 63% of the pre-perfusion performance. Higher concentrations (10, 100 microM), however, were not associated with impaired rod performance, but with increased striatal dopamine concentrations. Perfusion of the substantia nigra with 1, 10 and 100 microM of the D(1)/D(5)-antagonist SCH 23390 dose-dependently impaired rod performance. SCH 23390 consistently increased dopamine and 5-hydroxytryptamine concentrations in substantia nigra but did not change the dialysate in the striatum. (3) In unilaterally 6-hydroxydopamine-lesioned rats, a dose-dependent improvement in rod performance was observed during perfusion of the substantia nigra with the non-selective dopamine agonist apomorphine.

Mutant Taiep rats exhibit an increase in D1 binding in basal ganglia

Previous reports have shown that the Taiep rat develop a progressive neurological syndrome characterized by tremor, ataxia, immobility episodes, audiogenic seizures and hind limb paralysis. Here we have investigated whether differences in levels of dopamine D1-like and D2-like receptors could be correlated with the progression of this neurological syndrome. Comparative autoradiographic study of Taiep and Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats at level of basal ganglia and limbic subregion were undertaken in 3- and 9-month-old rats. The Taiep rats exhibited a higher level of D1 receptors in the basal ganglia subregions compared to SD. However, there were no differences in the level of D1 receptors in the limbic subregions between these two strains. As compared to the SD rats, the Taiep rats did not appear to change levels of D2-like receptors. These data suggest that the differences in D1 receptors in these two strains rats may in part contribute to develop the dopamine related symptoms seen in the mutant rat, such as tremor, which is the earliest sign of the Taiep rat syndrome.

Dopamine modulates the function of group II and group III metabotropic glutamate receptors in the substantia nigra pars reticulata

Recent findings have shown that dendritically released dopamine (DA) plays an important modulatory role in the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr). It is therefore possible that the loss of DA observed in Parkinson's disease (PD) could hold important consequences for nigral function. Previously, we have shown that activation of presynaptically localized group II metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) inhibits excitatory transmission at the subthalamic nucleus (STN)-SNr synapse and that activation of presynaptically localized group III mGluRs decreases excitatory and inhibitory transmission in the SNr. To test the hypothesis that nigral DA can modulate mGluR function in the SNr, we performed whole-cell patch-clamp recordings from gamma-aminobutyric acidergic SNr neurons in slices obtained from rats that were acutely reserpinized. In slices obtained from reserpinized animals, the effect of group II mGluR activation by the selective agonist (+)-2-aminobicyclo[3.1.0]-hexane-2,6-dicarboxylate monohydrate (LY354740) (100 nM), but not group III mGluR activation [L-(+)-2-amino-4-phosphonobutyric acid, L-AP4, 500 microM], at STN-SNr synapses is significantly decreased. This effect could be mimicked in control slices by prior bath application of haloperidol (20 microM) and R-(+)-7-chloro-8-hydroxy-3-methyl-1-phenyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-3-benzazepine (SCH23390) (20 microM) but not sulpiride (50 microM). Furthermore, application of dopamine (100 microM) and (+/-)-6-chloro-7,8-dyhydroxy-3allyl-1-phenyl-2,3,4,5-tetra-hydro-1H-benzazepine (SKF82958) (1 microM) but not quinpirole (10 microM) could rescue the group II mGluR effect in reserpinized slices. The effect of group III mGluR activation (L-AP4, 100 microM) on inhibitory synaptic transmission was also significantly reduced in slices from reserpine-treated animals. This effect was mimicked by haloperidol (20 microM), SCH23390 (20 microM), and sulpiride (50 microM) in control slices. Thus, in a Parkinsonian state, the loss of nigral DA may add to the overall pathophysiological changes in basal ganglia output.

Modulation of dendritic release of dopamine by metabotropic glutamate receptors in rat substantia nigra

A superfusion system was used to study the effects of metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) ligands upon the release of [(3)H]dopamine ([(3)H]DA) previously taken up by rat substantia nigra (SN) slices. trans-(+/-)-1-Amino-(1S,3R)-cyclopentane dicarboxylic acid (trans-ACPD; 100 and 600 microM), a group I and II mGluR agonist, evoked the release of [(3)H]DA from nigral slices. This last effect was reduced significantly by (2S,3S,4S)-2-methyl-2-(carboxycyclopropyl)-glycine (MCCG; 300 microM), an antagonist of group II mGluR, or by the addition of tetrodotoxin (D-APV; 1 microM) to the superfusion medium. D-(-)-2-Amino-5-phosphono-valeric acid (100 microM), an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist, or the presence of Mg(2+) (1.2mM) in the superfusion medium did not modify trans-ACPD-induced [(3)H]DA release. In addition, a group II mGluR agonist such as (2S,1'R,2'R,3'R)-2-(2',3'-dicarboxycyclopropyl)-glycine (DCG-IV; 100 microM) significantly induced the release of [(3)H]DA from nigral slices, whereas a group I mGluR agonist such as (RS)-3,5-dihydroxyphenylglycine (DHPG; 50 and 100 microM) did not modify the release of the [(3)H]-amine. Further experiments showed that the NMDA (100 microM)-evoked release of [(3)H]DA was decreased significantly by prior exposure of SN slices to trans-ACPD. Finally, partial denervation of the DA nigro-striatal pathway with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OH-DA) increased trans-ACPD-induced release of [(3)H]DA, whereas it decreased trans-ACPD inhibitory effects on NMDA-evoked release of [(3)H]DA from nigral slices. The present results suggest that the dendritic release of DA in the SN is regulated by mGluR activation. Such nigral mGluR activation may produce opposite effects upon basal and NMDA-evoked release of DA in the SN. In addition, such mGluR-induced effects in the SN are modified in response to partial denervation of the DA nigro-striatal pathway.

Distinct roles for nigral GABA and glutamate receptors in the regulation of dendritic dopamine release under normal conditions and in response to systemic haloperidol

The regulation of dendritic dopamine release in the substantia nigra (SN) likely involves multiple mechanisms. GABA and glutamate inputs to nigrostriatal dopamine neurons exert powerful influences on dopamine neuron physiology; therefore, it is probable that GABA and glutamate likewise influence dendritic dopamine release, at least under some conditions. The present studies used in vivo microdialysis to determine the potential roles of nigral GABA and glutamate receptors in the regulation of dendritic dopamine release under normal conditions and when dopamine signaling in the basal ganglia is compromised after systemic haloperidol administration. Nigral application of the GABA(A) receptor antagonist bicuculline by reverse dialysis significantly increased spontaneous dopamine efflux in the SN. However, spontaneous dopamine efflux in the SN was not significantly affected by local application of the glutamate receptor antagonists 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione or (+/-)-3-[2-carboxypiperazine-4-yl]-propyl-1-phosphonic acid. Systemic haloperidol administration significantly increased the extracellular dopamine measured in the SN. Blockade of nigral GABA(A) receptors by local bicuculline application did not alter this effect of systemic haloperidol, despite the bicuculline-induced increase in spontaneous dendritic dopamine efflux. In contrast, nigral application of either glutamate receptor antagonist significantly attenuated the increases in dendritic dopamine efflux elicited by systemic haloperidol. These data suggest that under normal conditions, activity of GABA afferents to SN dopamine neurons is an important determinant of the spontaneous level of dendritic dopamine release. Circuit-level changes in the basal ganglia involving an increased glutamatergic drive to the SN appear to underlie the increase in dendritic dopamine release that occurs in response to systemic haloperidol administration.

High frequency stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus increases the extracellular contents of striatal dopamine in normal and partially dopaminergic denervated rats

The subthalamic nucleus (STN) has come under focus in Parkinson disease (PD) because of recent advances in the understanding of the functional organization of the basal ganglia in normal and pathological conditions. Manipulations of the STN have been described to compensate for some imbalance in motor output of the basal ganglia in animal models of PD and have been proposed as a potential therapeutic target in humans. Indeed, high frequency stimulation (HFS) (130 Hz) of the STN has beneficial effects in severe parkinsonian patients but the precise mechanisms underlying these clinical results remain to be elucidated. To date, very little is known concerning the effect of HFS-STN on striatal dopaminergic transmission. Since it has been reported that dopaminergic medication may be reduced in PD patients under HFS-STN, our goal was to study the effect of HFS-STN on striatal dopamine (DA) transmission by using intracerebral microdialysis in normal and partially DA denervated rats. Our results show that HFS STN induces a significant increase of extracellular DA in the striatum of normal and partially DA lesioned rats while striatal extracellular levels of DOPAC were not affected. We conclude that HFS-STN acts directly and/or indirectly on striatal DA levels in control or partially DA lesioned rats.

Effects of methamphetamine-induced neurotoxicity on the development of neural circuitry: a hypothesis

Exposure of the developing brain to methamphetamine has well-studied biochemical and behavioral consequences. We review: (1) the effects of methamphetamine on mature serotonergic and dopaminergic pathways; (2) the mechanisms of methamphetamine neurotoxicity and (3) the role of serotonergic and dopaminergic signaling in sculpting developing neural circuitry. Consideration of these data suggest the types of neural circuit alterations that may result from exposure of the developing brain to methamphetamine and that may underlie functional defects.

MK801 influences L-DOPA-induced dopamine release in intact and hemi-parkinson rats

In vivo microdialysis was used to investigate the influence of dizocilpine (MK801) on basal and levodopa (L-DOPA)-induced extracellular dopamine levels in striatum and substantia nigra of intact and 6-hydroxydopamine-lesioned rats. In lesioned rats, extracellular dopamine was decreased in striatum but not in substantia nigra. L-DOPA (25 mg/kg i.p. after benserazide 10 mg/kg i. p.) increased the dopamine levels in striatum and substantia nigra of intact and dopamine-depleted rats. This increase was significantly higher in dopamine-depleted compared to intact striatum. Pretreatment with MK801 (0.1 and 1.0 mg/kg i.p.) dose-dependently attenuated the L-DOPA-induced dopamine release in substantia nigra of intact rats. In dopamine-depleted striatum, MK801 enhanced L-DOPA-induced dopamine release. The present results indicate that the influence of MK801 on L-DOPA-induced dopamine release in striatum and substantia nigra depends on the integrity of the nigrostriatal pathway. In Parkinson's disease, NMDA receptor antagonists could be beneficial by enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of L-DOPA at the level of the striatum.

Effects of high frequency stimulation of subthalamic nucleus on extracellular glutamate and GABA in substantia nigra and globus pallidus in the normal rat

High frequency stimulation (130 Hz) of the subthalamic nucleus has dramatic beneficial motor effects in severe parkinsonian patients. However, the mechanisms underlying these clinical results remain obscure. The objective of the present work was to study the neurochemical changes induced in rats by high frequency stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus by using intracerebral microdialysis within its target structures. Our results show that high frequency stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus induces a significant increase of extracellular glutamate levels in the ipsilateral globus pallidus and substantia nigra while GABA was augmented only in the substantia nigra. These data suggest that functional effects induced by high frequency stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus might imply distal mechanisms involving the synaptic relationships with the subthalamic efferences. They question the current view that the direct inhibition of the subthalamic neurons is induced by high frequency stimulation.

Delta opioid receptors regulate calcium-dependent, amphetamine-evoked glutamate levels in the rat striatum: an in vivo microdialysis study

Blockade of opioid receptors decreases amphetamine-induced behaviors and dopamine release in the striatum. Use of selective opioid receptor ligands has indicated that these effects are mediated by delta opioid receptors (DORs). However, the site of action of delta receptors and the influence of delta receptor antagonists on other neurotransmitters released by amphetamine are unknown. Therefore, the effect of reverse microdialysis of the selective delta opioid antagonist, naltrindole, on extracellular striatal glutamate levels evoked by amphetamine (2.5 mg/kg, i.p.) was investigated. Naltrindole (10-100 microM) decreased amphetamine-evoked glutamate levels in a concentration-dependent manner. The selective delta agonist, [D-Pen(2,5)]-enkephalin (100, 500 microM), reversed the effect of naltrindole, confirming that delta receptors mediated this effect. The amphetamine-evoked increase in extracellular glutamate levels was determined to be 39% calcium-sensitive by lowering the calcium concentration in the perfusate. Under these conditions, naltrindole had no effect on the calcium-independent component of amphetamine-evoked glutamate levels. These data indicate that intrastriatal DORs modulate a calcium-dependent, amphetamine-evoked component of extracellular glutamate levels that may depend on activation of a transsynaptic basal ganglia-thalamo-cortical loop.

Interaction between dopamine and glutamate receptors following treatment with NMDA receptor antagonists

Interactions between dopamine and glutamate neurotransmission have been reported to play an important role in a number of different systems. We were interested in examining the effects of sub-chronic treatment with NMDA receptor antagonists (dizocilpine [MK-801], and 3-carboxy-piperazin-propyl phosphonic acid [CPP]) on dopamine D(1)-like, dopamine D(2)-like, as well as glutamate receptors of the NMDA and AMPA receptor subtypes in the neostriatum and substantia nigra of rats that had received a massive dopamine denervation at 3 days of age. Using quantitative ligand binding autoradiography, we demonstrated that the two NMDA receptor antagonists did not have different profiles of action. Furthermore, while we found a significant negative relationship between NMDA receptors and dopamine receptors (both dopamine D(1)-like and D(2)-like receptor subtypes) in the neostriatum, AMPA receptors were positively correlated with dopamine D(1)-like binding sites in all regions investigated. These findings suggest that the interrelationship between dopamine and glutamate receptors is highly controlled and that the nigrostriatal dopamine systems play an important role in this interaction.

Effects of dopamine depletion of the dorsal striatum and further interaction with subthalamic nucleus lesions in an attentional task in the rat

The present study investigated the effects of 6-hydroxydopamine lesions of the dorsal striatum on a five choice serial reaction time task which assesses visual sustained and divided attention. Striatal dopamine loss by itself produced no deficits in accuracy on the standard form of the task, but lengthened response latencies and increased omissions and perseverative behaviour. Reducing the temporal predictability of the visual event led to impaired accuracy, contrasting with previously published effects of ventral striatal dopamine depletion. To further investigate the interactions between dopaminergic and glutamatergic systems within the basal ganglia, we have tested the effects of 6-hydroxydopamine lesions in animals bearing subthalamic nucleus lesions. Previous evidence [C. Baunez and T. W. Robbins, (1997) Eur. J. Neurosci. 9, 2086-2099] has revealed multiple deficits after bilateral lesions of the subthalamic nucleus. The present study replicated these effects. In combination with subthalamic nucleus lesions, striatal dopamine loss antagonised the increase in premature responding but did not counteract any of the other impairments. These results show the involvement of the dopaminergic nigrostriatal pathway in motor attention and arousal. Furthermore, they underline the independence of subthalamic nucleus lesion-induced effects from dopaminergic systems.