Inhibition of isolation-induced changes in aminergic transmission by chronic lithium treatment

Social isolation of mice leads to changes in aminergic transmission systems. After 6 weeks of isolation, an increase of apomorphine-stimulated climbing behavior is seen, reflecting an isolation-induced dopaminergic supersensitivity. After 1-3 weeks of isolation, a decrease of clonidine sedation is detectable, suggesting the development of noradrenergic alpha 2-receptor subsensitivity. The isolation-induced changes of both drug effects are prevented by lithium given over the time of isolation.