Neurotransmitter-receptor binding in various brain regions in ethanol-dependent rats

Since chronic ethanol administration has been demonstrated to induce a number of alterations in neurotransmitter utilization, the possibility was investigated that the receptors, on which these transmitters act, are altered because of a modified synaptic input. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were rendered physically-dependent on ethanol by the oral administration of 9-13 g/kg of ethanol each day over a 4 day period. The binding of radioligands specific for alpha-adrenergic, beta-adrenergic, dopaminergic, serotonergic, muscarinic cholinergic, and GABAergic receptors was assessed at various intervals after withdrawal in several areas of the brain. No alteration in receptor binding was observed at any point under the conditions studied. The data suggest that the signs of an ethanol withdrawal syndrome are not mediated through changes in the ability of neurotransmitters to interact with their receptors.