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Effects of Buprenorphine on the Memory and Learning Deficit Induced by Methamphetamine Administration in Male Rats
Farshid Etaee1,2, Arezoo Rezvani-Kamran1, Somayeh Komaki1
1Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
Abstract:
Little is known about the effects of methamphetamine (Meth) and buprenorphine (Bup) on memory and learning in rats. The aim of this investigation was to examine the impact of Meth and Bup on memory and learning. Fourteen male Wistar rats weighing 250-300 g were assigned to four groups: Sham, Meth, Bup, and Meth + Bup and were treated for 1 week. Spatial learning and memory, avoidance learning, and locomotion were assessed using the Morris water maze, passive avoidance learning, and open field tests, respectively. Meth and Bup impaired spatial learning and memory in rats. Co-administration of Meth + Bup did not increase the time spent in the target quadrant compared to Meth alone in the MWM. The Bup and Meh + Bup groups were found with an increase in step-through latency (STLr) and a decrease in the time spent in the dark compartment (TDC). Meth and Bup had no effects on locomotor activity in the open field test. Bup showed a beneficial effect on aversive memory. Since Bup demonstrates fewer side effects than other opioid drugs, it may be preferable for the treatment of avoidance memory deficits in patients with Meth addiction.
Insights
Methamphetamine and buprenorphine impair spatial learning and memory in rats. Buprenorphine may benefit aversive memory deficits in methamphetamine-addicted patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Methamphetamine (Meth) addiction is a significant public health issue.
- The cognitive deficits associated with Meth addiction, particularly in memory and learning, require further investigation.
- Buprenorphine (Bup) is an opioid medication with potential therapeutic applications, but its effects on cognition in the context of Meth use are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the individual and combined effects of Methamphetamine and Buprenorphine on spatial learning, memory, and avoidance learning in a rat model.
- To assess the impact of these substances on locomotor activity.
Main Methods:
- Four groups of male Wistar rats (Sham, Meth, Bup, Meth + Bup) were treated for one week.
- Spatial learning and memory were evaluated using the Morris water maze (MWM).
- Avoidance learning was assessed via passive avoidance learning, and locomotor activity was measured in an open field test.
Main Results:
- Both Methamphetamine and Buprenorphine significantly impaired spatial learning and memory.
- Co-administration of Meth + Bup did not show improved performance in the MWM compared to Meth alone.
- Buprenorphine and the Meth + Bup combination increased step-through latency and decreased time in the dark compartment, indicating an effect on aversive memory.
- Neither drug affected locomotor activity.
Conclusions:
- Methamphetamine and Buprenorphine negatively impact spatial learning and memory in rats.
- Buprenorphine demonstrates a potential beneficial effect on aversive memory.
- Given its favorable side effect profile compared to other opioids, Buprenorphine may be a suitable treatment option for memory deficits in patients with Meth addiction.
