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Calcium influence on neuronal sensitivity to ethanol in selectively bred mouse lines
Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior
|April 1, 1986
Summary
Genetic differences in brain calcium processes influence ethanol sensitivity. This suggests that alterations in central nervous system calcium metabolism may contribute to ethanol-induced narcosis.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Genetics
Background:
- Ethanol sensitivity varies between individuals.
- Calcium ions play crucial roles in neuronal function.
- The relationship between calcium metabolism and ethanol sensitivity is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of calcium in genetic differences in ethanol sensitivity.
- To determine if calcium modulates ethanol-induced narcosis.
Main Methods:
- Intracerebroventricular (ICV) administration of calcium chloride and A23187 (calcium ionophore) in SS and LS mice.
- Assessment of blood ethanol concentration at loss of righting reflex.
- Administration of magnesium chloride and lanthanum chloride as controls.
- Testing sensitivity to halothane narcosis.
- Measurement of endogenous brain calcium content.
Main Results:
- ICV calcium chloride and A23187 significantly increased ethanol sensitivity in SS mice, but not LS mice.
- Magnesium chloride and lanthanum chloride did not affect ethanol sensitivity.
- Calcium did not alter sensitivity to halothane narcosis.
- Endogenous brain calcium levels were similar between mouse lines and unaffected by ethanol exposure.
Conclusions:
- Genetic variations in calcium-related processes contribute to differential brain sensitivity to ethanol.
- Ethanol-induced narcosis may involve alterations in central nervous system calcium metabolism.
