Prolactin neurotransmitter effect

The administration of low doses of PCP to rodents induces hyperactivity and stereotypy (Chen et al. 1959 ). The observation that neuroleptics such as chlorpromazine, haloperidol, and pimozide, and adrenolytics such as alpha-methyl paratyrosine antagonize these behavioral effects of PCP suggests that they are mediated by facilitation of central dopaminergic neurotransmission (Murray and Horita 1979). The actions of PCP on central dopaminergic neurotransmission may be similar to amphetamine. A dose of PCP (2.5 mg/kg) in rats, which has no effects when given alone, enhances the behavioral effects of 1 and 3 mg/kg of d-amphetamine (Balster and Chait 1978). PCP, like dopamine, has also been shown to suppress plasma prolactin (Bayorh et al. 1983). However, the firm establishment of an excl usive relationship between dopamine neuro-transmission and PCP effects is difficult because of the prominent interactions of this drug with other neurotransmitter systems. 

In order to review these putative relationships it is first useful to define a subset of well-characterized hormones and neurotransmitters that have been implicated in behavior. The chemicals selected for discussion here are among those for which a robust relationship with behavior has been proposed, including steroids (estrogens, progestins, androgens and glucocorticoids), proteins (prolactin) and the neuropeptides (oxytocin and vasopressin). All of these chemicals may act as hormones, neurotransmitters and/or neuromodulators. In addition, to understand the action of these hormones, it is helpful to be familiar with some of the more common neurotransmitters (described below). Space does not permit a discussion of the behavioral effects of many additional compounds with endocrine or paracrine properties. 

Receptor Class Mu (pi) Primary Therapeutic Effect(s) Spinal and supraspinal analgesia Other Effects Sedation respiratory depression constipation inhibits neurotransmitter release (acetylcholine, dopamine) increases hormonal release (prolactin growth hormone)... 

The suprahypothalamic neurotransmitter level can be assessed by a determination of catecholamines in circumscribed brain areas, the technique requires preparation of frozen tissue and isolation of specific nuclei by the micropunch technique. The catecholamines and indolamines can be measured by a radio-enzymatic methods and by a high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) with electrochemical detection. These mechanistic investigations are mostly initiated due to questions arising from the receptor interaction profile of the drug candidate, they may be required to prove that such receptor interactions truly change the functional state of neurotransmitters (functional expression). Mostly, however, the peripheral effects of such neurotransmitter mechanisms (for instance prolactin secretion) are sufficiently distinct. 

Prolactin-inhibiting hormone (PIH), also known as dopamine, is not a peptide (Chapter 17). It functions as a neurotransmitter in the CNS and as a precursor of norepinephrine and epinephrine in the adrenal medulla. In the hypothalamus, it originates in the TIDA and is released at the median eminence. Dopamine is a potent inhibitor of PRL release by the lactotropes (and mammosomatotropes) of the anterior pituitary, and this effect is mediated by D2 receptors that are coupled to Gj inhibition of adenylate cyclase. The lactotropes are unique in that they do not require stimulation by the hypothalamus to secrete PRL in fact, blockage of the blood flow from the hypothalamus to the anterior pituitary results in elevated serum levels of PRL, due to withdrawal of dopamine. Thus, unlike somatostatin, the effectiveness of dopamine does not depend on the presence of a stimulating hormone (Chapter 34). 

Cannabidiol Attentuated apomorphine-induced stereotypy in animal model of psychosis-similar to effect of other antipsychotic drugs. Animal study showed increased prolactin secretion similar to described antipsychotic effect. Based on observed effects, mechanism of action may be similar to atypical antipsychotics, though no data available on specific neurotransmitters involved. 

Murphy LL, Steger RW, Smith MS, Bartke A. Effects of A -tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabinol and cannabidiol, alone and in combinations, on luteinizing hormone and prolactin release and on hypothalamic neurotransmitters in the male rat. Neuroendocrinology 52, 316-321 (1990). 

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