Central 5HT1A-receptor binding in normotensive and spontaneously hypertensive rats

Central 5HT1A-receptors have been found with a high density in brainstem and are involved in cardiovascular control. The high-affinity binding of [3H]-8-OH-DPAT, a specific 5HT1A-receptor ligand, was measured in medulla oblongata of normotensive and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). The maximal number of [3H]-8-OH-DPAT binding site (Bmax) was significantly increased in SHR when compared to normotensive rats. Whether central 5HT1A-receptors are involved in the etiology of hypertension or are influenced by other neurochemical events remains to be investigated.