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The grasping response in rats: interaction between gamma-type endorphins and haloperidol
W R Van Furth1, V M Wiegant, J W Bruning
1Department of Pharmacology, Rudolf Magnus Institute, Medical Faculty, University of Utrecht, The Netherlands.
European Journal of Pharmacology
|October 22, 1991
Summary
Gamma-type endorphins and haloperidol both trigger grasping responses in rats. Blocking gamma-type endorphin activity reduced this haloperidol-induced response, suggesting an interaction between these systems.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Gamma-type endorphins are known to induce grasping responses in rats, similar to neuroleptics.
- Haloperidol, a neuroleptic, also elicits a grasping response, indicating potential shared pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if blocking gamma-type endorphin activity affects the haloperidol-induced grasping response in rats.
- To explore the potential interaction between endogenous gamma-type endorphins and haloperidol's effects.
Main Methods:
- Rats received intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injections of gamma-endorphin antiserum or a monoclonal anti-idiotype antibody.
- These treatments aimed to bio-inactivate gamma-type endorphins or block their receptors.
- The haloperidol-induced grasping response was assessed after these antibody treatments.
Main Results:
- Both gamma-endorphin antiserum and the anti-idiotype antibody significantly attenuated the haloperidol-induced grasping response.
- This attenuation was most pronounced 3 hours post-haloperidol administration.
- Control sera did not affect the response, indicating specificity of the antibody treatments.
Conclusions:
- Endogenous gamma-type endorphin activity interacts with the haloperidol-induced grasping response.
- Blocking gamma-type endorphin pathways can modulate neuroleptic-induced behaviors.
- This suggests a functional link between endorphinergic systems and dopaminergic pathways targeted by haloperidol.