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Long-term verapamil treatment increases [3H]imipramine binding in human platelets
European Journal of Pharmacology
|June 8, 1990
Summary
Long-term verapamil treatment significantly increased serotonin transporter density in human platelets. This finding may explain verapamil's benefits in treating affective disorders.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
- Cardiology
Background:
- Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker used for cardiovascular conditions.
- The serotonin transporter (SERT) plays a role in mood regulation.
- Previous studies suggested verapamil might benefit affective disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of long-term verapamil on the serotonin transporter in human platelets.
- To determine if verapamil affects [3H]imipramine binding, a marker for SERT density.
Main Methods:
- Blood samples were collected from cardiac patients on long-term verapamil.
- Platelet-rich plasma was isolated.
- [3H]imipramine binding assays were performed to quantify SERT density.
Main Results:
- A significant 24% increase in high-affinity [3H]imipramine binding sites was observed.
- This indicates an up-regulation of the serotonin transporter.
- The increase was statistically significant (P < 0.05).
Conclusions:
- Long-term verapamil treatment up-regulates the serotonin transporter in human platelets.
- This up-regulation may contribute to the antidepressant effects of verapamil.
- Platelets serve as a viable model for studying SERT changes in response to medication.