Angiotensin II AT1 receptors mediate neuronal sensitization and sustained blood pressure response induced by a single injection of amphetamine

MARCHESE, N.A.; PAZ, M. C.; CAEIRO, X.; DADAM, F.M.; BAIARDI, G.; PEREZ. M.F.; BREGONZIO, C.

NEUROSCIENCE

PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD

Lugar: Amsterdam; Año: 2017 vol. 340C p. 521 - 521

0306-4522

single exposure to amphetamine induces neurochemical sensitization in striatal areas. The neuropeptide angiotensin II, through AT1 receptors (AT1-R) activation, is involved in these responses. However, amphetamine-induced alterations can be extended to extra-striatal areas involved in blood pressure control and their physiological outcomes. Our aim for the present study was to analyze the possible role for AT1-R in these events using a two-injection protocol and to further characterize the proposed AT1-R antagonism protocol. Central effect of orally administered AT1-R blocker (Candesartan, 3mg/kg p.o. × 5 days) was analyzed by spontaneous activity of neurons within locus coeruleus. In another group of animals pretreated with the AT1-R blocker or vehicle, sensitization was achieved by a single administration of amphetamine (5mg/kg i.p.- day 6) followed by a 3 week period off drug. On day 27, after receiving an amphetamine challenge (0.5mg/kg i.p.), we evaluated: 1) the sensitized c-Fo