[Calcium-dependent liberation of gamma-hydroxybutyrate after depolarization of rat brain slices]

The release of gamma-hydroxybutyrate from preloaded Rat brain striatal slices was investigated. Potassium induced depolarisation caused an efflux of gamma-hydroxybutyrate in the incubation medium. This release is significantly decreased by a calcium free medium, containing magnesium salt and EGTA. Taking into account our previous results concerning synthesis, uptake and binding of gamma-hydroxybutyrate, this calcium-dependent release strongly suggest a possible role of gamma-hydroxybutyrate in neurotransmission in the C.N.S.