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Harman induces preference for ethanol in rats: is the effect specific for ethanol?
Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior
|April 1, 1987
Summary
Harman and tetrahydronorharman (THN) significantly increased ethanol preference in rats. Harman also altered fluid intake rhythms, mimicking effects seen at high ethanol concentrations.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Ethanol consumption is influenced by various neurochemical factors.
- Beta-carbolines, such as harman and THN, are endogenous compounds with potential psychoactive effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of harman, harmalan, and tetrahydronorharman (THN) on ethanol intake and fluid consumption patterns in rats.
- To explore the relationship between brain harman concentration and ethanol consumption.
Main Methods:
- Male Wistar rats were exposed to increasing concentrations of ethanol and other drugs for 21 days.
- Continuous intraventricular infusion of harman, harmalan, and THN was administered between days 8 and 21.
- Ethanol and water intake patterns were monitored by counting licking movements.
Main Results:
- Harman and THN dose-dependently increased ethanol preference.
- Harman was more potent than THN in inducing ethanol preference.
- Harman infusion reduced clomethiazole intake but did not affect etonitazene or midazolam intake.
- Harman altered fluid intake rhythms, mimicking high-concentration ethanol effects.
Conclusions:
- Harman and THN act as significant drivers of ethanol preference.
- Harman influences drug intake and modifies fluid consumption rhythms, suggesting a role in modulating reward pathways and consummatory behaviors.