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3-4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine-induced acute changes in dopamine transporter function

R R Metzger1, G R Hanson, J W Gibb

  • 1Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City 84112, USA.

European Journal of Pharmacology
|July 22, 1998
PubMed
Summary
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The designer drug MDMA (ecstasy) and similar amphetamines rapidly reduce dopamine transporter function in rats, an effect that is temporary. Cocaine did not show this acute effect on dopamine transporters.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Pharmacology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Monoaminergic systems are crucial for regulating mood and behavior.
  • Psychostimulants like amphetamines significantly impact these systems.
  • Understanding the acute effects of designer drugs on neurotransmitter transporters is vital for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the acute effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA or 'ecstasy') on dopamine transporter function.
  • To compare MDMA's effects with other psychostimulants.
  • To explore potential mechanisms underlying these effects.

Main Methods:

  • Rats were administered single doses of MDMA, methamphetamine, p-chloroamphetamine, methcathinone, or cocaine.
  • Striatal synaptosomes were prepared 1 hour and 24 hours post-administration.

Related Experiment Videos

  • [3H]dopamine uptake assays were performed to measure dopamine transporter function.

    • Main Results:

    • MDMA caused a dose-related, rapid decrease in striatal [3H]dopamine uptake, returning to baseline within 24 hours.
    • Methamphetamine, p-chloroamphetamine, and methcathinone also rapidly decreased dopamine uptake.
    • Cocaine, even with multiple administrations, had no acute effect on dopamine transporter function.

    Conclusions:

    • Amphetamine designer drugs like MDMA acutely impair dopamine transporter function in the rat striatum.
    • These effects are transient and may involve reactive oxygen species.
    • Differential effects on dopamine transporters distinguish MDMA and related compounds from cocaine.