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A Method for Evaluating the Reinforcing Properties of Ethanol in Rats without Water Deprivation, Saccharin Fading or Extended Access Training
Published on: January 29, 2017
Ethanol retains its ability to modify endogenous opiate system in aged rats
F Rossi1, N Quirico, C Carillo
1Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Sanatrix, Venafro, Isernia.
Rivista Di Neurologia
|May 1, 1988
Summary
Chronic ethanol exposure increases delta opiate receptor sensitivity and decreases mu opiate receptor affinity in rat striatum. These alcohol-induced changes in opiate receptor function occur similarly in both young and aged rats.
Area of Science:
- Neuropharmacology
- Addiction Research
Background:
- Chronic ethanol consumption alters neurotransmitter systems.
- Opiate receptors in the striatum play a role in reward and addiction pathways.
- Age-related changes in brain function can influence drug responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of chronic ethanol administration on striatal opiate receptor function.
- To compare these effects in adult and aged male Sprague Dawley rats.
Main Methods:
- Adult (3-month-old) and aged (24-month-old) male Sprague Dawley rats were administered 8% ethanol in drinking water for 28 days.
- Opiate receptor function, including delta and mu receptor sensitivity and affinity, was assessed at the striatal level.
Main Results:
- Chronic ethanol administration induced supersensitivity of striatal delta opiate receptors.
- The affinity of striatal mu opiate receptors was decreased following ethanol treatment.
- These alterations in opiate receptor function were comparable between adult and aged rats.
Conclusions:
- Ethanol's effects on striatal opiate receptors may involve the inhibition of endogenous opiate release.
- Age does not significantly alter the qualitative or quantitative impact of chronic ethanol on these specific opiate receptor functions.
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