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Rhythmic jaw movements induced by ethanol in rats
U Andersson1, T Lewander, L M Gunne
1Psychiatric Research Center, Uppsala, Sweden.
Pharmacology & Toxicology
|April 1, 1989
Summary
Ethanol anesthesia in rats induces rapid rhythmic jaw movements (RJM). Clozapine abolished RJM, while other drugs reduced it, suggesting pharmacological control of this brainstem-mediated response.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Anesthesiology
Background:
- Ethanol anesthesia can induce complex motor behaviors.
- Rhythmic jaw movements (RJM) are observed during certain physiological and pathological states.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of ethanol anesthesia on RJM in rats.
- To explore the pharmacological modulation of ethanol-induced RJM.
Main Methods:
- Rats were administered an anesthetic dose of ethanol (3.0 mg/kg, intraperitoneally).
- The incidence and duration of RJM were recorded.
- Various drugs, including clozapine, haloperidol, apomorphine, and atropine, were administered to assess their effects on RJM.
Main Results:
- Ethanol administration induced RJM, peaking at 90 movements/min within 5 minutes and ceasing by 15 minutes.
- Clozapine (4.4 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) completely abolished RJM.
- Haloperidol, apomorphine, and atropine partially reduced the RJM phenomenon.
Conclusions:
- Ethanol anesthesia appears to activate or disinhibit a brainstem masticatory pattern generator.
- The observed RJM is susceptible to pharmacological manipulation.
- These findings suggest potential therapeutic targets for managing ethanol-induced motor effects.