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Bassi M, Bilel S, Tirri M, Corli G, Di Rosa F, Gregori A, Alkilany AM, Rachid O, Roda E, De Luca F, Papa P, Buscaglia E, Zauli G, Locatelli CA, Marti M. The synthetic cathinones MDPHP and MDPV: Comparison of the acute effects in mice, in silico ADMET profiles and clinical reports. Neurotoxicology 2024; 103:230-255. [PMID: 38955288 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2024.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
The 3,4-methylenedioxy-alpha-pyrrolidinohexanophenone (MDPHP) is a synthetic cathinone closely related to 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV), one of the most common synthetic cathinones present in the "bath salts". MDPHP has recently gained attention due to increasing seizures and involvement in human intoxications which occurred in Europe and Italy in the last years, but currently there is a lack of information about its pharmaco-toxicological effects. With the aim at filling this gap, the present study is endeavoured to (i) evaluate the effects of acute administration of MDPHP (0.01-20 mg/kg; i.p.) on behaviour, cardiorespiratory and cardiovascular parameters in CD-1 male mice, comparing them to those observed after administration of MDPV; (ii) predict the ADMET profile of the two analogues using the Plus ADMET Predictor®; (iii) present clinical data related to MDPHP and MDPV-induced intoxications recorded between 2011 and 2023 by the Pavia Poison Control Centre (PCC) - National Toxicology Information Centre (Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS Pavia, Italy). Our results substantiated that MDPHP and MDPV similarly affect sensorimotor and behavioural responses in mice, importantly increased locomotion and induced aggressive behaviour, and, at higher dosage, increased heart rate and blood pressure. These findings are in line with those observed in humans, revealing severe toxidromes typically characterized by Central Nervous System (CNS) alterations (behavioural/neuropsychiatric symptoms), including psychomotor agitation and aggressiveness, cardiovascular and respiratory disorders (e.g. tachycardia, hypertension, dyspnoea), and other peripheral symptoms (e.g. hyperthermia, acidosis, rhabdomyolysis).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Bassi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sabrine Bilel
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Micaela Tirri
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giorgia Corli
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fabiana Di Rosa
- Department of Scientific Investigation (RIS), Carabinieri, Rome 00191, Italy
| | - Adolfo Gregori
- Department of Scientific Investigation (RIS), Carabinieri, Rome 00191, Italy
| | - Alaaldin M Alkilany
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Qatar
| | - Ousama Rachid
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Qatar
| | - Elisa Roda
- Laboratory of Clinical & Experimental Toxicology, Pavia Poison Centre, National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Fabrizio De Luca
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "L. Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia 27100, Italy
| | - Pietro Papa
- Laboratory of Analytical Toxicology-Clinical Chemistry, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico S. Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Eleonora Buscaglia
- Laboratory of Clinical & Experimental Toxicology, Pavia Poison Centre, National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giorgio Zauli
- Research Department, King Khaled Eye Specialistic Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Carlo Alessandro Locatelli
- Laboratory of Clinical & Experimental Toxicology, Pavia Poison Centre, National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy; Department of Anti-Drug Policies, Collaborative Center for the Italian National Early Warning System, Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Ferrara, Italy.
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Montiel-Herrera F, Batanero-Geraldo A, López JC, Vargas JP, Quintero E, Díaz E. Effects of acute and chronic methylphenidate on prepulse inhibition: A sex difference study in Wistar rats. Physiol Behav 2024; 278:114526. [PMID: 38531426 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2024.114526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The utilization of methylphenidate (MPH) is experiencing a notable surge within the adult population. This growth can be attributed to two key factors: its recreational and cognitive enhancement purposes, as well as the rising prevalence of ADHD diagnoses within this population. This study examined acute and chronic oral MPH effects on attention in male and female Wistar rats. To this end, we used a prepulse inhibition (PPI) task, which is widely used to assess psychoactive drug effects in both humans and rodents. This task allowed us to evaluate changes in attention by analyzing sensorimotor gating associated with stimulus selection process. METHODS Animals were administered a clinically relevant dose of MPH (5 mg/kg) daily for seven days. The estrous cycle phases of the female rats were measured during behavioral sessions. The PPI task was conducted 20 min after drug administration on day 1 (acute), day 7 (chronic), and 48 h post-treatment. RESULTS Results indicated that both acute and chronic MPH treatment impaired PPI expression in male rats, but not in female rats, regardless of their estrous cycle phase. Furthermore, a differential effect of chronic MPH treatment on the PPI task was found in male rats. Specifically, on the seventh treatment day, the PPI effect was observed when animals undertook the PPI task for the first time but was impaired in those animals in which the initial PPI session occurred under the acute influence of the drug (day 1). CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that the impact of MPH on sensorimotor gating responses may vary based on sex and task experience, possibly leading to state-dependent effects in healthy individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Montiel-Herrera
- Laboratory of Animal Behavior and Neuroscience, Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - A Batanero-Geraldo
- Laboratory of Animal Behavior and Neuroscience, Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - J C López
- Laboratory of Animal Behavior and Neuroscience, Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - J P Vargas
- Laboratory of Animal Behavior and Neuroscience, Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - E Quintero
- Laboratory of Animal Behavior and Neuroscience, Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - E Díaz
- Laboratory of Animal Behavior and Neuroscience, Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain.
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Pinterova‐Leca N, Horsley RR, Danda H, Žídková M, Lhotková E, Šíchová K, Štefková K, Balíková M, Kuchař M, Páleníček T. Naphyrone (naphthylpyrovalerone): Pharmacokinetics, behavioural effects and thermoregulation in Wistar rats. Addict Biol 2021; 26:e12906. [PMID: 32378298 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Naphthylpyrovalerone (naphyrone) is a pyrovalerone cathinone that potently inhibits monoamine transporters and provides stimulatory-entactogenic effects. Little is known about the safety of naphyrone or its effects in vivo, and more research is needed to acquire knowledge about its fundamental effects on physiology and behaviour. Our objective was to investigate naphyrone's pharmacokinetics, acute toxicity, hyperthermic potential and stimulatory and psychotomimetic properties in vivo in male Wistar rats. Pharmacokinetics after 1 mg/kg subcutaneous (sc.) naphyrone were measured over 6 h in serum, the brain, liver and lungs. Rectal temperature (degree Celsius) was measured over 10 h in group-versus individually housed rats after 20 mg/kg sc. In the behavioural experiments, 5, 10 or 20 mg/kg of naphyrone was administered 15 or 60 min prior to testing. Stimulation was assessed in the open field, and sensorimotor processing in a prepulse inhibition (PPI) task. Peak concentrations of naphyrone in serum and tissue were reached at 30 min, with a long-lasting elevation in the brain/serum ratio, consistent with observations of lasting hyperlocomotion in the open field and modest increases in body temperature. Administration of 20 mg/kg transiently enhanced PPI. Naphyrone crosses the blood-brain barrier rapidly and is eliminated slowly, and its long-lasting effects correspond to its pharmacokinetics. No specific signs of acute toxicity were observed; therefore, clinical care and harm-reduction guidance should be in line with that available for other stimulants and cathinones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikola Pinterova‐Leca
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology National Institute of Mental Health Klecany Czech Republic
- Third Faculty of Medicine Charles University in Prague Prague Czech Republic
| | - Rachel R. Horsley
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology National Institute of Mental Health Klecany Czech Republic
| | - Hynek Danda
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology National Institute of Mental Health Klecany Czech Republic
- Third Faculty of Medicine Charles University in Prague Prague Czech Republic
| | - Monika Žídková
- Institute of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, First Faculty of Medicine Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague Prague Czech Republic
| | - Eva Lhotková
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology National Institute of Mental Health Klecany Czech Republic
| | - Klára Šíchová
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology National Institute of Mental Health Klecany Czech Republic
| | - Kristýna Štefková
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology National Institute of Mental Health Klecany Czech Republic
| | - Marie Balíková
- Institute of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, First Faculty of Medicine Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague Prague Czech Republic
| | - Martin Kuchař
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology National Institute of Mental Health Klecany Czech Republic
- Forensic Laboratory of Biologically Active Compounds, Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague Prague Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Páleníček
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology National Institute of Mental Health Klecany Czech Republic
- Third Faculty of Medicine Charles University in Prague Prague Czech Republic
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Šíchová K, Pinterová N, Židková M, Horsley RR, Lhotková E, Štefková K, Vejmola Č, Uttl L, Balíková M, Kuchař M, Páleníček T. Mephedrone (4-Methylmethcathinone): Acute Behavioral Effects, Hyperthermic, and Pharmacokinetic Profile in Rats. Front Psychiatry 2018; 8:306. [PMID: 29375408 PMCID: PMC5767720 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2017.00306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mephedrone (MEPH) is a synthetic cathinone derivative with effects that mimic MDMA and/or cocaine. Our study in male Wistar rats provides detailed investigations of MEPH's and its primary metabolite nor-mephedrone's (nor-MEPH) pharmacokinetics and bio-distribution to four different substrates (serum, brain, lungs, and liver), as well as comparative analysis of their effects on locomotion [open field test (OFT)] and sensorimotor gating [prepulse inhibition of acoustic startle reaction (PPI ASR)]. Furthermore, in order to mimic the crowded condition where MEPH is typically taken (e.g., clubs), the acute effect of MEPH on thermoregulation in singly- and group-housed rats was evaluated. Pharmacokinetics of MEPH and nor-MEPH after MEPH (5 mg/kg, sc.) were analyzed over 8 h using liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry. MEPH (2.5, 5, or 20 mg/kg, sc.) and nor-MEPH (5 mg/kg, sc.) were administered 5 or 40 min before the behavioral testing in the OFT and PPI ASR; locomotion and its spatial distribution, ASR, habituation and PPI itself were quantified. The effect of MEPH on rectal temperature was measured after 5 and 20 mg/kg, sc. Both MEPH and nor-MEPH were detected in all substrates, with the highest levels detected in lungs. Mean brain: serum ratios were 1:1.19 (MEPH) and 1:1.91 (nor-MEPH), maximum concentrations were observed at 30 min; at 2 and 4 h after administration, nor-MEPH concentrations were higher compared to the parent drug. While neither of the drugs disrupted PPI, both increased locomotion and affected its spatial distribution. The effects of MEPH were dose dependent, rapid, and short-lasting, and the intensity of locomotor stimulant effects was comparable between MEPH and nor-MEPH. Despite the disappearance of behavioral effects within 40 min after administration, MEPH induced rectal temperature elevations that persisted for 3 h even in singly housed rats. To conclude, we observed a robust, short-lasting, and most likely synergistic stimulatory effect of both drugs which corresponded to brain pharmacokinetics. The dissociation between the duration of behavioral and hyperthermic effects is indicative of the possible contribution of nor-MEPH or other biologically active metabolites. This temporal dissociation may be related to the risk of prolonged somatic toxicity when stimulatory effects are no longer present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klára Šíchová
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Nikola Pinterová
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
- Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Monika Židková
- Institute of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Rachel R. Horsley
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Lhotková
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Kristýna Štefková
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Čestmír Vejmola
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
- Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Libor Uttl
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Marie Balíková
- Institute of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Kuchař
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
- Forensic Laboratory of Biologically Active Compounds, Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Páleníček
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
- Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
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Abstract
Psilocybin has recently attracted a great deal of attention as a clinical research and therapeutic tool. The aim of this paper is to bridge two major knowledge gaps regarding its behavioural pharmacology - sex differences and the underlying receptor mechanisms. We used psilocin (0.25, 1 and 4 mg/kg), an active metabolite of psilocybin, in two behavioural paradigms - the open-field test and prepulse inhibition (PPI) of the acoustic startle reaction. Sex differences were evaluated with respect to the phase of the female cycle. The contribution of serotonin receptors in the behavioural action was tested in male rats with selective serotonin receptor antagonists: 5-HT1A receptor antagonist (WAY100635 1 mg/kg), 5-HT2A receptor antagonist (MDL100907 0.5 mg/kg), 5-HT2B receptor antagonist (SB215505 1 mg/kg) and 5-HT2C receptor antagonist (SB242084 1 mg/kg). Psilocin induced dose-dependent inhibition of locomotion and suppression of normal behaviour in rats (behavioural serotonin syndrome, impaired PPI). The effects were more pronounced in male rats than in females. The inhibition of locomotion was normalized by 5-HT1A and 5-HT2B/C antagonists; however, PPI was not affected significantly by these antagonists. Our findings highlight an important issue of sex-specific reactions to psilocin and that apart from 5-HT2A-mediated effects 5-HT1A and 5-HT2C/B receptors also play an important role. These findings have implications for recent clinical trials.
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Macúchová E, Nohejlová K, Ševčíková M, Hrebíčková I, Šlamberová R. Sex differences in the strategies of spatial learning in prenatally-exposed rats treated with various drugs in adulthood. Behav Brain Res 2017; 327:83-93. [PMID: 28359886 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2017.03.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2016] [Revised: 03/12/2017] [Accepted: 03/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
In the present study we investigated the sex differences in the effect of adult long-term drug treatment on cognitive functions of Wistar rats, which were prenatally exposed to MA (5mg/kg) or saline. Cognitive functions were tested as an ability of spatial learning in the Morris Water Maze (MWM), which consisted of three types of tests: "Place Navigation Test"; "Probe Test", and "Memory Recall Test". Adult animals were injected daily, after completion of the last trial, either with saline or cocaine (COC; 5mg/kg), MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine; 5mg/kg), morphine (MOR; 5mg/kg), or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC; 2mg/kg). Results revealed worsened MWM performance in female rats after drug treatment in adulthood. Not only were traditionally investigated parameters affected by drug treatment (latency of platform acquisition, search strategy, distance traveled), but also strategies used by animals (thigmotaxis, scanning). Analyses of search strategies observed in the Place Navigation Test, as well as in the Memory Recall Test, demonstrated variations in the percentage of time spent in thigmotaxis and scanning in females after treatment with COC, MDMA, MOR, and THC. Although we did not see a sensitizing effect of prenatal MA, in some cases the effect of drug treatment in adulthood differed depending on the prenatal drug exposure. The data presented in this study demonstrates that exposure to drugs with various mechanisms of action alters spatial abilities of female rats in the MWM. Alterations in the effect of adult drug treatment with reference to prenatal drug exposure were also found in the present study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Macúchová
- Charles University, Third Faculty of Medicine, Department of Normal, Pathological and Clinical Physiology, Ke Karlovu 4, 120 00 Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Kateryna Nohejlová
- Charles University, Third Faculty of Medicine, Department of Normal, Pathological and Clinical Physiology, Ke Karlovu 4, 120 00 Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Mária Ševčíková
- Charles University, Third Faculty of Medicine, Department of Normal, Pathological and Clinical Physiology, Ke Karlovu 4, 120 00 Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Ivana Hrebíčková
- Charles University, Third Faculty of Medicine, Department of Normal, Pathological and Clinical Physiology, Ke Karlovu 4, 120 00 Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Romana Šlamberová
- Charles University, Third Faculty of Medicine, Department of Normal, Pathological and Clinical Physiology, Ke Karlovu 4, 120 00 Prague, Czech Republic.
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Gogos A, Kusljic S, Thwaites SJ, van den Buuse M. Sex differences in psychotomimetic-induced behaviours in rats. Behav Brain Res 2017; 322:157-166. [PMID: 28111261 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2017.01.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Animal model studies using equal numbers of males and females are sparse in psychiatry research. Given the marked sex differences observed in psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia, using both males and females in research studies is an important requirement. Thus the aim of this study was to examine sex differences in psychotomimetic-induced behavioural deficits relevant to psychosis. We therefore compared the acute effect of amphetamine or phencyclidine on locomotor activity and prepulse inhibition in adult male and female Sprague-Dawley rats. The results of this study were that: (1) amphetamine-induced distance travelled was greater in female rats than in male rats, (2) phencyclidine-induced locomotor hyperactivity was similar in male and female rats; (3) there were no sex differences in amphetamine- or phencyclidine-induced disruption of prepulse inhibition; (4) male rats had an increased startle response after amphetamine. These findings suggest that sensitivity to amphetamine, but not phencyclidine, differs between male and female rats, and that this sex difference is selective to locomotor hyperactivity and startle, but not prepulse inhibition. This study used two widely-used, validated preclinical assays relevant to psychosis; the results of this study have implications for psychiatry research, particularly for disorders where marked sex differences in onset and symptomology are observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Gogos
- Hormones in Psychiatry Laboratory, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, Australia; Behavioural Neuroscience Laboratory, Mental Health Research Institute, Parkville, Australia.
| | - Snezana Kusljic
- Hormones in Psychiatry Laboratory, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, Australia; Behavioural Neuroscience Laboratory, Mental Health Research Institute, Parkville, Australia; Department of Nursing, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Shane J Thwaites
- Behavioural Neuroscience Laboratory, Mental Health Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
| | - Maarten van den Buuse
- Behavioural Neuroscience Laboratory, Mental Health Research Institute, Parkville, Australia; School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
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8
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Štefková K, Židková M, Horsley RR, Pinterová N, Šíchová K, Uttl L, Balíková M, Danda H, Kuchař M, Páleníček T. Pharmacokinetic, Ambulatory, and Hyperthermic Effects of 3,4-Methylenedioxy- N-Methylcathinone (Methylone) in Rats. Front Psychiatry 2017; 8:232. [PMID: 29204126 PMCID: PMC5698284 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2017.00232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Methylone (3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylcathinone) is a synthetic cathinone analog of the recreational drug ecstasy. Although it is marketed to recreational users as relatively safe, fatalities due to hyperthermia, serotonin syndrome, and multi-organ system failure have been reported. Since psychopharmacological data remain scarce, we have focused our research on pharmacokinetics, and on a detailed evaluation of temporal effects of methylone and its metabolite nor-methylone on behavior and body temperature in rats. Methylone [5, 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg subcutaneously (s.c.)] and nor-methylone (10 mg/kg s.c.) were used in adolescent male Wistar rats across three behavioral/physiological procedures and in two temporal windows from administration (15 and 60 min) in order to test: locomotor effects in the open field, sensorimotor gating in the test of prepulse inhibition (PPI), and effects on rectal temperature in individually and group-housed rats. Serum and brain pharmacokinetics after 10 mg/kg s.c. over 8 h were analyzed using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. Serum and brain levels of methylone and nor-methylone peaked at 30 min after administration, both drugs readily penetrated the brain with serum: brain ratio 1:7.97. Methylone dose-dependently increased overall locomotion. It also decrease the amount of time spent in the center of open field arena in dose 20 mg/kg and additionally this dose induced stereotyped circling around the arena walls. The maximum of effects corresponded to the peak of its brain concentrations. Nor-methylone had approximately the same behavioral potency. Methylone also has weak potency to disturb PPI. Behavioral testing was not performed with 40 mg/kg, because it was surprisingly lethal to some animals. Methylone 10 and 20 mg/kg s.c. induced hyperthermic reaction which was more pronounced in group-housed condition relative to individually housed rats. To conclude, methylone increased exploration and/or decreased anxiety in the open field arena and with nor-methylone had short duration of action with effects typical for mixed indirect dopamine-serotonin agonists such as 3,4-metyhlenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) or amphetamine. Given the fact that the toxicity was even higher than the known for MDMA and that it can cause hyperthermia it possess a threat to users with the risk for serotonin syndrome especially when used in crowded conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristýna Štefková
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia
| | - Monika Židková
- First Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Rachel R Horsley
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia
| | - Nikola Pinterová
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia.,Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Klára Šíchová
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia
| | - Libor Uttl
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Marie Balíková
- First Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Hynek Danda
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia.,Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Martin Kuchař
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia.,Forensic Laboratory of Biologically Active Compounds, Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Tomáš Páleníček
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia.,Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czechia
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9
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Lazenka MF, Suyama JA, Bauer CT, Banks ML, Negus SS. Sex differences in abuse-related neurochemical and behavioral effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2016; 152:52-60. [PMID: 27566288 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2016.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2016] [Revised: 08/13/2016] [Accepted: 08/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is a substrate for dopamine (DA), norepinephrine and serotonin (5HT) transporters that produces greater pharmacological effects on certain endpoints in females than males in both clinical and rodent preclinical studies. To evaluate potential for sex differences in abuse-related MDMA effects, the present study compared MDMA effects on intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) and on in vivo microdialysis measurements of DA or 5HT in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) in female and male Sprague-Dawley rats. For ICSS studies, electrodes were implanted in the medial forebrain bundle and rats trained to press for electrical stimulation over a range of frequencies (56-158Hz, 0.05 log increments) under a fixed-ratio 1 schedule, and the potency (0.32-3.2mg/kg, 10min pretreatment) and time course (3.2. mg/kg, 10-180min pretreatment) of MDMA effects were determined. For in vivo microdialysis, rats were implanted with bilateral guide cannulae targeting the NAc, and the time course of MDMA effects (1.0-3.2mg/kg, 0-180min) on DA and 5HT was determined. MDMA produced qualitatively similar effects in both sexes on ICSS (both increases in low ICSS rates maintained by low brain-stimulation frequencies and decreases in high ICSS rates maintained by high brain-stimulation frequencies) and microdialysis (increases in both DA and 5HT). The duration and peak levels of both abuse-related ICSS facilitation and increases in NAc DA were longer in females. MDMA was also more potent to increase 5HT in females. These results provide evidence for heightened sensitivity of females to abuse-related behavioral and neurochemical effects of MDMA in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- M F Lazenka
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA.
| | - J A Suyama
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - C T Bauer
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - M L Banks
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - S S Negus
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
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10
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Páleníček T, Lhotková E, Žídková M, Balíková M, Kuchař M, Himl M, Mikšátková P, Čegan M, Valeš K, Tylš F, Horsley RR. Emerging toxicity of 5,6-methylenedioxy-2-aminoindane (MDAI): Pharmacokinetics, behaviour, thermoregulation and LD50 in rats. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2016; 69:49-59. [PMID: 27083855 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2016.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Revised: 04/09/2016] [Accepted: 04/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
MDAI (5,6-Methylenedioxy-2-aminoindane) has a reputation as a non-neurotoxic ecstasy replacement amongst recreational users, however the drug has been implicated in some severe and lethal intoxications. Due to this, and the fact that the drug is almost unexplored scientifically we investigated a broad range of effects of acute MDAI administration: pharmacokinetics (in sera, brain, liver and lung); behaviour (open field; prepulse inhibition, PPI); acute effects on thermoregulation (in group-/individually-housed rats); and systemic toxicity (median lethal dose, LD50) in Wistar rats. Pharmacokinetics of MDAI was rapid, maximum median concentration in serum and brain was attained 30min and almost returned to zero 6h after subcutaneous (sc.) administration of 10mg/kg MDAI; brain/serum ratio was ~4. MDAI particularly accumulated in lung tissue. In the open field, MDAI (5, 10, 20 and 40mg/kg sc.) increased exploratory activity, induced signs of behavioural serotonin syndrome and reduced locomotor habituation, although by 60min some effects had diminished. All doses of MDAI significantly disrupted PPI and the effect was present during the onset of its action as well as 60min after treatment. Unexpectedly, 40mg/kg MDAI killed 90% of animals in the first behavioural test, hence LD50 tests were conducted which yielded 28.33mg/kg sc. and 35mg/kg intravenous but was not established up to 40mg/kg after gastric administration. Disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC) with brain oedema was concluded as a direct cause of death in sc. treated animals. Finally, MDAI (10, 20mg/kg sc.) caused hyperthermia and perspiration in group-housed rats. In conclusion, the drug had fast pharmacokinetics and accumulated in lipohilic tissues. Behavioural findings were consistent with mild, transient stimulation with anxiolysis and disruption of sensorimotor processing. Together with hyperthermia, the drug had a similar profile to related entactogens, especially 3,4-metyhlenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) and paramethoxymethamphetamine (PMMA). Surprisingly subcutaneous MDAI appears to be more lethal than previously thought and its serotonergic toxicity is likely exacerbated by group housing conditions. MDAI therefore poses greater risks to physical and mental health than recognised hitherto.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomáš Páleníček
- National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67 Klecany, Czech Republic; 3(rd) Medical faculty, Charles University in Prague, Ruská 87, 110 00 Prague 10, Czech Republic.
| | - Eva Lhotková
- National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67 Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Monika Žídková
- Institute of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Charles University in Prague, Studničkova 4, 128 21 Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Marie Balíková
- Institute of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Charles University in Prague, Studničkova 4, 128 21 Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Kuchař
- National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67 Klecany, Czech Republic; Faculty of Food and Biochemical Technology & Faculty of Chemical Technology, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Himl
- Faculty of Food and Biochemical Technology & Faculty of Chemical Technology, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Mikšátková
- National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67 Klecany, Czech Republic; Faculty of Food and Biochemical Technology & Faculty of Chemical Technology, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Čegan
- Masaryk hospital in Ústí nad Labem, Sociální péče 3316/12A, 401 13 Ústí nad Labem, Czech Republic
| | - Karel Valeš
- National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67 Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Filip Tylš
- National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67 Klecany, Czech Republic; 3(rd) Medical faculty, Charles University in Prague, Ruská 87, 110 00 Prague 10, Czech Republic
| | - Rachel R Horsley
- National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67 Klecany, Czech Republic
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11
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Soleimani Asl S, Mehdizadeh M, Hamedi Shahraki S, Artimani T, Joghataei MT. Sex differences in MDMA-induced toxicity in Sprague-Dawley rats. FUNCTIONAL NEUROLOGY 2016; 30:131-7. [PMID: 26415786 DOI: 10.11138/fneur/2015.30.2.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Recent evidence demonstrates that female subjects show exaggerated responses to 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) compared with males. The aim of our study was to evaluate sex differences and the role of endogenous gonadal hormones on the effects of MDMA. Fifty-six intact and gonadectomized male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to either MDMA (5 mg/kg) or saline treatment. Learning and memory were assessed using the Morris water maze (MWM). The expression of Bax and Bcl-2 in the hippocampus was detected by Western blotting. Behavioral analysis showed that MDMA led to memory impairment in both male and female rats. The female rats showed more sensitivity to impairment than the males, as assessed using all the memory parameters in the MWM. Ovariectomy attenuated the MDMA-induced memory impairment. By contrast, orchiectomized rats showed more impairment than MDMA-treated intact male rats. Bcl-2 and Bax were down-regulated and up-regulated in MDMA-treated male and female rats, respectively. MDMA treatment in the orchiectomized rats led to upregulation of Bax and down-regulation of Bcl-2. Ovariectomy attenuated the MDMA-induced up-regulation of Bax and caused more expression of Bcl-2 compared with what was observed in the MDMA-treated intact female rats. In summary, female rats showed exaggerated responses to the effects of MDMA and this may be explained by endogenous gonadal hormones.
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12
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Macúchová E, Ševčíková M, Hrebíčková I, Nohejlová K, Šlamberová R. How various drugs affect anxiety‐related behavior in male and female rats prenatally exposed to methamphetamine. Int J Dev Neurosci 2016; 51:1-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2016.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Revised: 04/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- E. Macúchová
- Charles University in PragueThird Faculty of Medicine, Department of Normal, Pathological and Clinical PhysiologyPragueCzech Republic
| | - M. Ševčíková
- Charles University in PragueThird Faculty of Medicine, Department of Normal, Pathological and Clinical PhysiologyPragueCzech Republic
| | - I. Hrebíčková
- Charles University in PragueThird Faculty of Medicine, Department of Normal, Pathological and Clinical PhysiologyPragueCzech Republic
| | - K. Nohejlová
- Charles University in PragueThird Faculty of Medicine, Department of Normal, Pathological and Clinical PhysiologyPragueCzech Republic
| | - R. Šlamberová
- Charles University in PragueThird Faculty of Medicine, Department of Normal, Pathological and Clinical PhysiologyPragueCzech Republic
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13
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Lopez-Rodriguez AB, Llorente-Berzal A, Garcia-Segura LM, Viveros MP. Sex-dependent long-term effects of adolescent exposure to THC and/or MDMA on neuroinflammation and serotoninergic and cannabinoid systems in rats. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 171:1435-47. [PMID: 24236988 PMCID: PMC3954483 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2013] [Revised: 11/07/2013] [Accepted: 11/13/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Many young people consume ecstasy as a recreational drug and often in combination with cannabis. In this study, we aimed to mimic human consumption patterns and investigated, in male and female animals, the long-term effects of Δ(9) -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) on diverse neuroinflammation and neurotoxic markers. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Male and female Wistar rats were chronically treated with increasing doses of THC and/or MDMA during adolescence. The effects of THC and/or MDMA on glial reactivity and on serotoninergic and cannabinoid systems were assessed by immunohistochemistry in the hippocampus and parietal cortex. KEY RESULTS THC increased the area staining for glial fibrilar acidic protein in both sexes. In males, both drugs, either separately or in combination, increased the proportion of reactive microglia cells [ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba-1)]. In contrast, in females, each drug, administered alone, decreased of this proportion, whereas the combination of both drugs resulted in a 'normalization' to control values. In males, MDMA reduced the number of SERT positive fibres, THC induced the opposite effect and the group receiving both drugs did not significantly differ from the controls. In females, MDMA reduced the number of SERT positive fibres and the combination of both drugs counteracted this effect. THC also reduced immunostaining for CB1 receptors in females and this effect was aggravated by the combination with MDMA. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Adolescent exposure of rats to THC and/or MDMA induced long-term, sex-dependent neurochemical and glial alterations, and revealed interactions between the two drugs. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Cannabinoids 2013. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2014.171.issue-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Belen Lopez-Rodriguez
- Department of Animal Physiology (Animal Physiology II), Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid – Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC)Madrid, Spain
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas (CSIC)Madrid, Spain
| | - Alvaro Llorente-Berzal
- Department of Animal Physiology (Animal Physiology II), Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid – Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC)Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis M Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas (CSIC)Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria-Paz Viveros
- Department of Animal Physiology (Animal Physiology II), Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid – Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC)Madrid, Spain
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14
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Effect of prenatal methamphetamine exposure and challenge dose of the same drug in adulthood on epileptiform activity induced by electrical stimulation in female rats. Neuroscience 2014; 257:130-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2013.10.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2013] [Revised: 10/14/2013] [Accepted: 10/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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15
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Slamberová R, Macúchová E, Nohejlová-Deykun K, Schutová B, Hrubá L, Rokyta R. Gender differences in the effect of prenatal methamphetamine exposure and challenge dose of other drugs on behavior of adult rats. Physiol Res 2013; 62:S99-S108. [PMID: 24329709 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.932593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to compare the response to acute application of several drugs in adult male and female rats prenatally exposed to methamphetamine (MA). Spontaneous locomotor activity and exploratory behavior of adult male and female rats prenatally exposed to MA (5 mg/kg) or saline were tested in a Laboras apparatus (Metris B.V., Netherlands) for 1 h. Challenge dose of the examined drug [amphetamine - 5 mg/kg; cocaine - 5 mg/kg; MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) - 5 mg/kg; morphine - 5 mg/kg; THC (delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol) - 2 mg/kg] or saline was injected prior to testing. Our data demonstrate that prenatal MA exposure did not affect behavior in male rats with cocaine or morphine treatment, but increased locomotion and exploration in females. Application of amphetamine and MDMA in adulthood increased activity in both sexes, while cocaine and THC only in female rats. Morphine, on the other hand, decreased the activity in the Laboras test in both sexes. As far as sex and estrous cycle is concerned, the present study shows that males were generally less active than females and also females in proestrus-estrus phase of the estrous cycle were more active than females in diestrus. In conclusion, the present study shows that the prenatal MA exposure does not induce general sensitization but affects the sensitivity to drugs dependently to mechanism of drug action and with respect to gonadal hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Slamberová
- Department of Normal, Pathological and Clinical Physiology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Prague, Czech Republic.
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16
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Llorente-Berzal A, Puighermanal E, Burokas A, Ozaita A, Maldonado R, Marco EM, Viveros MP. Sex-dependent psychoneuroendocrine effects of THC and MDMA in an animal model of adolescent drug consumption. PLoS One 2013; 8:e78386. [PMID: 24223797 PMCID: PMC3817254 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0078386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2013] [Accepted: 09/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Ecstasy is a drug that is usually consumed by young people at the weekends and frequently, in combination with cannabis. In the present study we have investigated the long-term effects of administering increasing doses of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol [THC; 2.5, 5, 10 mg/kg; i.p.] from postnatal day (pnd) 28 to 45, alone and/or in conjunction with 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine [MDMA; two daily doses of 10 mg/kg every 5 days; s.c.] from pnd 30 to 45, in both male and female Wistar rats. When tested one day after the end of the pharmacological treatment (pnd 46), MDMA administration induced a reduction in directed exploration in the holeboard test and an increase in open-arm exploration in an elevated plus maze. In the long-term, cognitive functions in the novel object test were seen to be disrupted by THC administration to female but not male rats. In the prepulse inhibition test, MDMA-treated animals showed a decrease in prepulse inhibition at the most intense prepulse studied (80 dB), whereas in combination with THC it induced a similar decrease at 75 dB. THC decreased hippocampal Arc expression in both sexes, while in the frontal cortex this reduction was only evident in females. MDMA induced a reduction in ERK1/2 immunoreactivity in the frontal cortex of male but not female animals, and THC decreased prepro-orexin mRNA levels in the hypothalamus of males, although this effect was prevented when the animals also received MDMA. The results presented indicate that adolescent exposure to THC and/or MDMA induces long-term, sex-dependent psychophysiological alterations and they reveal functional interactions between the two drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvaro Llorente-Berzal
- Departamento de Fisiología (Fisiología Animal II), Facultad de Biología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Emma Puighermanal
- Laboratori de Neurofarmacologia, Departament de Ciències Experimentals i de Salut, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aurelijus Burokas
- Laboratori de Neurofarmacologia, Departament de Ciències Experimentals i de Salut, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andrés Ozaita
- Laboratori de Neurofarmacologia, Departament de Ciències Experimentals i de Salut, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rafael Maldonado
- Laboratori de Neurofarmacologia, Departament de Ciències Experimentals i de Salut, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
- * E-mail: (RM); (MPV)
| | - Eva M. Marco
- Departamento de Fisiología (Fisiología Animal II), Facultad de Biología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria-Paz Viveros
- Departamento de Fisiología (Fisiología Animal II), Facultad de Biología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail: (RM); (MPV)
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17
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Thwaites SJ, Gogos A, Van den Buuse M. Schizophrenia-like disruptions of sensory gating by serotonin receptor stimulation in rats: Effect of MDMA, DOI and 8-OH-DPAT. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2013; 112:71-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2013.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2013] [Revised: 09/23/2013] [Accepted: 09/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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18
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Ogeil RP, Rajaratnam SMW, Broadbear JH. Male and female ecstasy users: differences in patterns of use, sleep quality and mental health outcomes. Drug Alcohol Depend 2013; 132:223-30. [PMID: 23453259 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2013.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2012] [Revised: 01/08/2013] [Accepted: 02/03/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ecstasy users report a number of adverse effects following use including mood and sleep disturbances. The present study examined differences in characteristics of ecstasy use (amount, frequency of use, reported harm resulting from use) between males and females and assessed relationships between ecstasy use, sleep quality and mental health outcomes. METHODS An online survey of 268 ecstasy users (54.1% male, 45.9% female) was conducted. Validated sleep instruments assessing sleep quality and excessive daytime sleepiness, as well as questionnaires regarding physical and mental health (measured using the short-form health survey 12 (SF-12) and details of drug use were included. RESULTS Male ecstasy users reported taking larger amounts of ecstasy, but were not more frequent users compared to females. Female ecstasy users were more likely to report increased harm following ecstasy including: feelings of guilt and remorse; failing to do what was normally expected of them; and having been told by others to cut down their ecstasy use. There were interactions between amount and gender and frequency and gender in predicting use of sleep medication and daytime dysfunction. There was a positive correlation between poorer sleep quality and negative mood, although this relationship was not moderated by sex. CONCLUSIONS There is a significant association between sleep quality and mood disturbance in ecstasy users suggesting that these negative outcomes are co-morbid. These findings have implications for the treatment and advice given to ecstasy users who are experiencing sleep and/or mood related complaints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowan P Ogeil
- School of Psychology and Psychiatry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia.
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19
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Šlamberová R, Pometlová M, Schutová B, Hrubá L, Macúchová E, Nová E, Rokyta R. Do prenatally methamphetamine-exposed adult male rats display general predisposition to drug abuse in the conditioned place preference test? Physiol Res 2013; 61:S129-38. [PMID: 23130898 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.932391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug abuse of pregnant women is a growing problem. The effect of prenatal drug exposure may have devastating effect on development of the offsprings that may be long-term or even permanent. One of the most common drug abused by pregnant women is methamphetamine (MA), which is also the most frequently abused illicit drug in the Czech Republic. Our previous studies demonstrated that prenatal MA exposure alters behavior, cognition, pain and seizures in adult rats in sex-specific manner. Our most recent studies demonstrate that prenatal MA exposure makes adult rats more sensitive to acute injection of the same or related drugs than their controls. The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of prenatal MA exposure on drug-seeking behavior of adult male rats tested in the Conditioned place preference (CPP). Adult male rats were divided to: prenatally MA-exposed (5 mg/kg daily for the entire prenatal period), prenatally saline-exposed (1 ml/kg of physiological saline) and controls (without maternal injections). The following drugs were used in the CPP test in adulthood: MA (5 mg/kg), amphetamine (5 mg/kg), cocaine (5 and 10 mg/kg), morphine (5 mg/kg), MDMA (5 mg/kg) and THC (2 mg/kg). Our data demonstrated that prenatally MA-exposed rats displayed higher amphetamine-seeking behavior than both controls. MA as well as morphine induced drug-seeking behavior of adult male rats, however this effect did not differ based on the prenatal MA exposure. In contrast, prenatal MA exposure induced rather tolerance to cocaine than sensitization after the conditioning in the CPP. MDMA and THC did not induce significant effects. Even though the present data did not fully confirmed our hypotheses, future studies are planned to test the drug-seeking behavior also in self-administration test.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Šlamberová
- Department of Normal, Pathological and Clinical Physiology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic.
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20
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Páleníček T, Fujáková M, Brunovský M, Horáček J, Gorman I, Balíková M, Rambousek L, Syslová K, Kačer P, Zach P, Bubeníková-Valešová V, Tylš F, Kubešová A, Puskarčíková J, Höschl C. Behavioral, neurochemical and pharmaco-EEG profiles of the psychedelic drug 4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine (2C-B) in rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2013; 225:75-93. [PMID: 22842791 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-012-2797-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2012] [Accepted: 06/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES Behavioral, neurochemical and pharmaco-EEG profiles of a new synthetic drug 4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine (2C-B) in rats were examined. MATERIALS AND METHODS Locomotor effects, prepulse inhibition (PPI) of acoustic startle reaction (ASR), dopamine and its metabolite levels in nucleus accumbens (NAc), EEG power spectra and coherence in freely moving rats were analysed. Amphetamine was used as a reference compound. RESULTS 2C-B had a biphasic effect on locomotion with initial inhibitory followed by excitatory effect; amphetamine induced only hyperlocomotion. Both drugs induced deficits in the PPI; however they had opposite effects on ASR. 2C-B increased dopamine but decreased 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) in the NAc. Low doses of 2C-B induced a decrease in EEG power spectra and coherence. On the contrary, high dose of 2C-B 50 mg/kg had a temporally biphasic effect with an initial decrease followed by an increase in EEG power; decrease as well as increase in EEG coherence was observed. Amphetamine mainly induced an increase in EEG power and coherence in theta and alpha bands. Increases in the theta and alpha power and coherence in 2C-B and amphetamine were temporally linked to an increase in locomotor activity and DA levels in NAc. CONCLUSIONS 2C-B is a centrally active compound similar to other hallucinogens, entactogens and stimulants. Increased dopamine and decreased DOPAC in the NAc may reflect its psychotomimetic and addictive potential and monoaminoxidase inhibition. Alterations in brain functional connectivity reflected the behavioral and neurochemical changes produced by the drug; a correlation between EEG changes and locomotor behavior was observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomáš Páleníček
- Prague Psychiatric Center, Ústavní 91, 181 03 Bohnice, Prague 8, Czech Republic.
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21
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Taylor SB, Markham JA, Taylor AR, Kanaskie BZ, Koenig JI. Sex-specific neuroendocrine and behavioral phenotypes in hypomorphic Type II Neuregulin 1 rats. Behav Brain Res 2011; 224:223-32. [PMID: 21620900 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2011.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2011] [Revised: 05/09/2011] [Accepted: 05/10/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neuregulin 1 (NRG1) is an important growth factor involved in the development and plasticity of the central nervous system. Since its identification as a susceptibility gene for schizophrenia, several transgenic mouse models have been employed to elucidate the role NRG1 may play in the pathogenesis of psychiatric disease. Unfortunately very few studies have included females, despite the fact that some work suggests that the consequences of disrupted NRG1 expression may be sex-specific. Here, we used Nrg1 hypomorphic (Nrg1(Tn)) Fischer rats to demonstrate sex-specific changes in neuroendocrine and behavioral phenotypes as a consequence of reduced Type II NRG1 expression. We have previously shown that male Nrg1(Tn) rats have increased basal corticosterone levels, and fail to habituate to an open field despite normal overall levels of locomotor activity. The current studies show that, in contrast, female Nrg1(Tn) rats exhibit enhanced suppression of corticosterone levels following an acute stress, reduced locomotor activity, and enhanced habituation to novel environments. Furthermore, we also show that female, but not male, Nrg1(Tn) rats have impaired prepulse inhibition. Finally, we provide evidence that sex-specific changes are not likely attributable to major disruptions in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, as measures of pubertal onset, estrous cyclicity, and reproductive capacity were unaltered in female Nrg1(Tn) rats. Our results provide further support for both the involvement of NRG1 in the control of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function and the sex-specific nature of this relationship.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Behavior, Animal/physiology
- Blotting, Western
- Female
- Genotype
- Male
- Motor Activity/physiology
- Mutation/physiology
- Neuregulin-1/genetics
- Neuregulin-1/physiology
- Neurosecretory Systems/physiology
- Rats
- Rats, Inbred F344
- Receptors, Glucocorticoid/genetics
- Receptors, Glucocorticoid/metabolism
- Receptors, Mineralocorticoid/genetics
- Receptors, Mineralocorticoid/metabolism
- Reflex, Startle/physiology
- Reproduction/genetics
- Restraint, Physical
- Sex Characteristics
- Sexual Maturation/genetics
- Sexual Maturation/physiology
- Stress, Psychological/physiopathology
- Stress, Psychological/psychology
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara B Taylor
- Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
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22
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Lacy RT, Mactutus CF, Harrod SB. Prenatal IV nicotine exposure produces a sex difference in sensorimotor gating of the auditory startle reflex in adult rats. Int J Dev Neurosci 2011; 29:153-61. [PMID: 21145386 PMCID: PMC3312379 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2010.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2010] [Revised: 11/24/2010] [Accepted: 12/01/2010] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal smoking during pregnancy is associated with auditory processing deficits in children; these effects have been confirmed with animal models of continuous high-dose prenatal nicotine exposure. The present experiments utilized a novel, low-dose, intermittent, intravenous (IV) gestational nicotine exposure model to investigate potential deficits on the preattentive process of sensorimotor gating, as indexed by prepulse inhibition (PPI), in preweanling and adult rat offspring. Pregnant dams received bolus IV injections of nicotine (0.05 mg/kg/injection) 3×/day on gestational days 8-21. Auditory and tactile stimulus modalities were probed with tone and air puff prepulse stimuli, respectively. These prepulse stimuli preceded a 100 dB(A) startle tone by six different interstimulus intervals (ISIs; 0, 8, 40, 80, 120, 4000 ms) to define a curve of response inhibition. The magnitude of PPI increased with age, from 59 to 81% inhibition. Preweanlings (PNDs 14 and 18) and adults (PND 75) gestationally exposed to nicotine exhibited altered startle responding relative to controls, but the nature of the deficit became more localized at later ages. The entire curve of response inhibition in preweanlings exposed to prenatal nicotine (PND 14) was shifted up relative to controls, and notably, did not interact with prepulse stimulus modality, suggesting a generalized increased sensorimotor responsiveness as a function of prenatal nicotine. At PND 18, a shift in the response curve across all ISIs was again noted, but varied as a function of prepulse stimulus modality; the increased sensorimotor responsiveness was specific to the auditory, but not tactile, sensory modality. In adulthood, male and female animals prenatally exposed to nicotine were differentially sensitive to modulation by the ISIs, relative to control male and female animals. Specifically, despite robust PPI, adult females exposed to gestational nicotine were relatively insensitive to changes in ISI from 8 to 120 ms; in contrast, the robust PPI of nicotine-exposed males demonstrated a clear focal point of inhibition at 40 ms. These findings indicate that a low, daily dosing of IV prenatal nicotine produces long-lasting alterations in auditory PPI. An important implication of this research is that "chipping" with smoked-tobacco products during pregnancy may produce enduring changes in sensorimotor processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan T Lacy
- Program in Behavioral Neuroscience, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
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Behavioral, hyperthermic and pharmacokinetic profile of para-methoxymethamphetamine (PMMA) in rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2011; 98:130-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2010.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2010] [Revised: 11/14/2010] [Accepted: 12/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Pálenícek T, Hlinák Z, Bubeníková-Valesová V, Novák T, Horácek J. Sex differences in the effects of N,N-diethyllysergamide (LSD) on behavioural activity and prepulse inhibition. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2010; 34:588-96. [PMID: 20156516 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2010.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2009] [Revised: 02/07/2010] [Accepted: 02/07/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to describe sex differences in the behavioural effects of N,N-diethyllysergamide (LSD) (locomotor activity and other behavioural repertoire in the open field) and its effects on sensorimotor gating in rats (prepulse inhibition (PPI) of the acoustic startle reaction). Three groups of animals were analysed: males, oestral and pro-oestral phase females (EP females), and metoestral and dioestral phase females (MD females). LSD (5, 50 and 200 microg/kg subcutaneously) attenuated locomotor activity and normal behavioural repertoire, and induced flat body posture, wet dog shakes and disrupted PPI. The most prominent behavioural findings of LSD were for LSD 200 microg/kg which suppressed almost all behavioural activity. LSD had mainly inhibitory locomotor effects in males and MD females, yet in EP female rats LSD increased locomotion during the second half of testing period. The main sex differences were observed in locomotor and exploratory behaviour. Both EP and MD females were less sensitive to hypolocomotor effects of LSD and had less pronounced thigmotaxis than males. Further EP females had increased rearing after LSD 5microg/kg. On the contrary although LSD disrupted PPI in males and MD female rats, EP females were protected from this disruptive effect. Thus, EP females seem to have a lower sensitivity to LSD behavioural actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomás Pálenícek
- Prague Psychiatric Center, Ustavní 91, 181 03, Prague 8, Czech Republic.
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Chang WL, Swerdlow NR, Breier MR, Thangaraj N, Weber M. Parametric approaches towards understanding the effects of the preferential D3 receptor agonist pramipexole on prepulse inhibition in rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2010; 95:473-8. [PMID: 20385162 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2010.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2010] [Revised: 03/23/2010] [Accepted: 04/03/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The preferential dopamine D3 receptor agonist pramipexole (PRA) disrupts prepulse inhibition (PPI) of acoustic startle, an operational measure of sensorimotor gating, in rats. Drug effects on PPI are sensitive to numerous experimental variables; proceeding with in-depth analyses of drug effects without a clear understanding of these variables is inefficient. The present studies characterized the impact on PRA-induced PPI deficits by a range of experimental parameters. As shown previously, PRA reduced both PPI and startle magnitude beginning 5-15 min post-injection; PRA effects on PPI were statistically significant through 35 min post-injection, while those on startle magnitude were still significant 65 min post-injection. PRA-induced PPI deficits were evident under conditions that matched startle magnitude in vehicle and PRA conditions and were independent of PRA-induced changes in prepulse-elicited motor activity. Additionally, PRA-induced PPI deficits did not differ significantly between uni- vs. cross-modal stimuli or between male vs. female rats, with no robust effect of estrous phase in females. These findings demonstrate that PRA effects on PPI are observed across several different experimental conditions and are dissociable from changes in startle magnitude or prepulse-elicited responses. Recommendations are made regarding "optimal" experimental conditions for studying the neurobiology of PRA-induced changes in PPI in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-li Chang
- Department of Psychiatry, UCSD School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093-0804, USA
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Gandy MN, McIldowie M, Lewis K, Wasik AM, Salomonczyk D, Wagg K, Millar ZA, Tindiglia D, Huot P, Johnston T, Thiele S, Nguyen B, Barnes NM, Brotchie JM, Martin-Iverson MT, Nash J, Gordon J, Piggott MJ. Redesigning the designer drug ecstasy: non-psychoactive MDMA analogues exhibiting Burkitt's lymphoma cytotoxicity. MEDCHEMCOMM 2010. [DOI: 10.1039/c0md00108b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Adams AL, Hudson A, Ryan CL, Doucette TA. Effects of estrous stage and time of day on prepulse inhibition in female rats. J Neurosci Methods 2008; 173:295-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2008.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2008] [Revised: 06/06/2008] [Accepted: 06/12/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Kinkead B, Yan F, Owens MJ, Nemeroff CB. Endogenous neurotensin is involved in estrous cycle related alterations in prepulse inhibition of the acoustic startle reflex in female rats. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2008; 33:178-87. [PMID: 18155361 PMCID: PMC2254501 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2007.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2007] [Revised: 10/22/2007] [Accepted: 11/01/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian hormones regulate prepulse inhibition (PPI) of the acoustic startle reflex. Results from studies in intact female rodents investigating sex, estrous cycle and ovarian hormone regulation of PPI are inconsistent. In experiment #1, we investigated whether PPI in female rats is influenced by the time of day of testing and the estrous cycle stage of the rat. PPI was examined across the day of proestrus (P) and diestrus 1 (D1) in female rats and compared to males. PPI in males and P females was significantly higher than in D1 females. PPI in males and D1 females was significantly affected by the time of day of testing with PPI being reduced in the afternoon and evening compared to morning. PPI in P females was not significantly affected by the time of day of testing. Previous studies have demonstrated estrous cycle regulation of central nervous system neurotensin (NT) neurons and peripherally administered NT receptor agonists regulate PPI in a manner similar to antipsychotic drugs. Experiment #2 of this study was designed to examine whether endogenous NT is involved in estrous cycle regulation of PPI. The NT receptor antagonist SR 142948A reduced the high levels of PPI during D1 and P. In contrast, when tested at a time of day in which PPI was low in D1 females, administration of both the typical antipsychotic drug haloperidol and the NT receptor antagonist significantly increased PPI. These data support an effect of time of day and estrous cycle stage on PPI in female rats. The estrous cycle variations in PPI are mediated in part by endogenous NT.
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Pálenícek T, Balíková M, Bubeníková-Valesová V, Horácek J. Mescaline effects on rat behavior and its time profile in serum and brain tissue after a single subcutaneous dose. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2008; 196:51-62. [PMID: 17922234 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-007-0926-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2007] [Revised: 08/14/2007] [Accepted: 08/21/2007] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Mescaline is a nonselective serotonin receptor agonist. It has relatively delayed onset of action and prolonged duration. Mescaline attenuates various behavioral parameters in rats; however, no information is available about its pharmacokinetics in rats and its relation to the behavioral changes produced by the drug. OBJECTIVES The present study evaluates the spontaneous locomotor activity and sensorimotor gating in relation to mescaline concentrations in the serum and the brain of rats MATERIALS AND METHODS Behavioral changes induced by mescaline [10, 20, and 100 mg/kg subcutaneously (s.c.)] were evaluated in an open-field test and testing of the prepulse inhibition of acoustic startle reaction (PPI) 15 and 60 min after drug administration. The time disposition of mescaline 20 mg/kg s.c. in rat serum and brain homogenates was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. RESULTS Mescaline produced significant inhibitory effects on locomotion in low doses and a biphasic effect with the highest dose. In the PPI test, only when tested 60 min after drug administration, all doses of mescaline disrupted PPI. Besides the experimental protocol, we have observed that approximately 50% of animals receiving 100 mg/kg died within 12 h post-injection. The serum levels of mescaline rapidly increased within 30 min and subsequently quickly decreased; however, the brain concentrations reached a maximum 1 h after administration and remained high for an additional 60 min. CONCLUSIONS Mescaline had a delayed onset of the main behavioral changes in rats compared to other hallucinogens. Behavioral changes correlated with the pharmacokinetics of the drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomás Pálenícek
- Prague Psychiatric Center, Ustavní 91, 181 03, Prague 8, Bohnice, Czech Republic.
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Allott K, Redman J. Are there sex differences associated with the effects of ecstasy/3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)? Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2007; 31:327-47. [PMID: 17109962 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2006.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2006] [Revised: 09/28/2006] [Accepted: 09/28/2006] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Sex has been identified as an important factor in moderating the effects of several drugs of abuse. Given the increasing popularity of ecstasy (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine [MDMA]) use, it is important for researchers and clinicians to understand the factors that may influence its pharmacological actions to improve education, harm reduction and treatment efforts. This review focuses on preclinical and clinical research that examines the role of sex as an independent variable in the effects of ecstasy/MDMA. A systematic search of PsycINFO and MEDLINE electronic databases from 1966 to April 2006 was conducted. Both preclinical and clinical studies show a sexually dimorphic pattern in the acute, subacute and possibly long-term effects of ecstasy/MDMA. Specifically, adult females are more sensitive than males to the acute and subacute physical and psychological effects of ecstasy/MDMA and long-term alterations in aspects of 5-HT functioning. Conversely, males are more sensitive to the acute physiological effects of ecstasy/MDMA. These findings are consistent with research outcomes reported for other substances such as amphetamines and cocaine. Potential reasons for these sex differences and directions for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Allott
- Department of Psychology, Monash University, Vic. 3800, Australia.
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Walker QD, Williams CN, Jotwani RP, Waller ST, Francis R, Kuhn CM. Sex differences in the neurochemical and functional effects of MDMA in Sprague-Dawley rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2007; 189:435-45. [PMID: 17019566 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-006-0531-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2006] [Accepted: 07/26/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA; "Ecstasy") use has been associated with acute toxicities and persistent depletion of the neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT). OBJECTIVES This study investigates whether sex differences in the acute and long-term effects of MDMA exist. METHODS Male and female rats received saline or 15 mg/kg MDMA, ip, bid for 4 days. Temperature was monitored on days 1 and 4. Locomotor activity was measured in a second cohort of animals on days 1 and 4 and after recovery on day 14. The effects of MDMA on performance in a plus maze task and brain levels of serotonin (5-HT) and the serotonin metabolite 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) were determined in a third cohort of animals 2 weeks after the last MDMA treatment. RESULTS Locomotor activity and temperature increased after MDMA administration on day 1. The drug-induced increases in temperature but not locomotion attenuated with repeated MDMA administration. Male and female MDMA-treated rats spent less time in the open arms of the elevated plus maze and had less 5-HT and 5-HIAA in all brain regions 2 weeks after the end of treatment. Temperature effects of MDMA and persistent effects on plus maze and brain serotonin content were similar in males and females. In contrast, females exhibited markedly greater locomotor stimulation after acute MDMA and also showed sensitization to an acute challenge 2 weeks later. CONCLUSIONS MDMA elicits substantially greater locomotor activation in female rats than in males, but persistent effects on anxiety and serotonin content were similar in males and females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Q David Walker
- Department of Pharmacology and Integrated Program in Toxicology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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Piper BJ. A developmental comparison of the neurobehavioral effects of ecstasy (MDMA). Neurotoxicol Teratol 2006; 29:288-300. [PMID: 17174068 PMCID: PMC1896315 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2006.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2006] [Revised: 09/07/2006] [Accepted: 10/06/2006] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The entactogen +/-3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA or ecstasy) is a popular recreational drug among college, high school, and, occasionally, middle school students. Preclinical research examining the acute and long-term effects of MDMA has predominately been conducted in reproductively mature subjects but there has been increasing interest in adolescent and in utero exposure. This review examines the acute and long-term responses to MDMA during perinatal, adolescent, and adult periods. The ability of MDMA to alter core body temperature emerges gradually during ontogeny while a reduction in body weight is evident at all ages. Learning and working-memory are also altered independent of the developmental stage of exposure. Current evidence suggests adults are more sensitive to the long-term serotonin depletions following MDMA but younger ages also exhibit substantial and rapid neuroplasticity. Sexually dimorphic MDMA responses have been identified for the acute hyperthermic and motoric effects of MDMA with pubescent males being especially susceptible. Several physiological, behavioral, and neurochemical MDMA issues requiring further study are also outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J Piper
- Neuroscience and Behavior Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003-7710, USA.
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