MK-801-induced stereotypy and its antagonism by neuroleptic drugs

MK-801 [(+)-5-methyl-10,11-dihydroxy-5H-dibenzo-(a,d)cyclohepten-5,10-imi ne hydrogen maleate], which blocks glutamatergic transmission at the NMDA-receptor-gated ion channel, induced stereotypies which are similar to those found after intrastriatal injections of AP-5, e.g. sniffing and locomotion. Tests in familiar or unfamiliar environment (non-stressful or stressful situation) did not qualitatively change MK-801-induced effects. Haloperidol (0.1 mg/kg, IP) delayed the onset and shortened the duration of MK-801 (0.16; 0.33 mg/kg, IP)-induced stereotypy whereas clozapine (5 mg/kg, SC) potently antagonized it. However, exact quantification of sniffing, measured in an experimental chamber designed for this purpose, revealed an antagonism by both drugs, haloperidol as well as clozapine. Stereotypy is considered to represent an animal model of schizophrenia, and the antagonism of stereotypy with classical (haloperidol) as well as with atypical (clozapine) antipsychotic drugs is in accordance with the glutamate hypothesis of schizophrenia.