The anxiolytic beta-carboline ZK 93423 prevents the stress-induced increase in dopamine turnover in the prefrontal cortex.

Abstract

The effects of electric foot-shock on the activity of the mesocortical dopaminergic (DAergic) neurons were estimated by measuring the changes in dihydrophenylacetic acid (DOPAC) and DA content in the prefrontal cortex of the rat. A marked rise in DOPAC content (+80%) and a significant decrease in DA levels (-23%) were observed after a 20 min foot-shock session. These effects were completely prevented by pretreatment with diazepam (5 mg/kg i.p.). ZK 93423, a recently synthesized beta-carboline with benzodiazepine-like properties, prevented the decrease in DA content induced by foot-shock at the dose of 20 mg/kg. Moreover, the stress-induced increase in DOPAC levels was partly or completely blocked by pretreatment with 20 or 40 mg/kg of ZK 93423, respectively. These results provide further support for the view that the mesocortical DAergic system can be modulated by drugs that selectively interact with the benzodiazepine recognition site.

• Authors: O Giorgi, M G Corda, G Biggio
• Journal: European journal of pharmacology (Eur J Pharmacol) Vol. 134 Issue 3 Pg. 327-31 (Feb 24 1987) ISSN: 0014-2999 [Print] Netherlands
• PMID: 2883014 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Anti-Anxiety Agents
• Carbolines
• 3,4-Dihydroxyphenylacetic Acid
• ZK 93423
• Dopamine

Topics

• 3,4-Dihydroxyphenylacetic Acid (metabolism)
• Animals
• Anti-Anxiety Agents (pharmacology)
• Carbolines (pharmacology)
• Cerebral Cortex (drug effects, metabolism)
• Dopamine (metabolism)
• Electroshock
• Male
• Rats
• Rats, Inbred Strains
• Stress, Psychological (metabolism)