Vasopressin-induced motor effects: Localization of a sensitive site in the amygdala

摘要: Arginine vasopressin (AVP) induces motor effects when administered into the cerebral ventricles, ventral septal area (VSA), or vestibular cerebellum of rat brain. Because AVP-like immunoreactivity and AVP-binding sites exist in central medial amygdala (cmeA), because can be kindled to produce effects, we hypothesized that might play a role AVP-induced effects. This hypothesis was tested by observing behavior response injection AVP region amygdala. Our results demonstrate an initial cmeA caused minor including immobility, prostration ataxia, whereas similar injection, given 24 h later, severe barrel rotations myoclonic/myotonic-like convulsive behavior. A potential receptor basis for sensitization investigated using analogues. V1 antagonist, d(CH2)5Tyr(Me)AVP), blocked both produced injection. V2 agonist, DDAVP, did not affect activity upon but did, however, sensitize animals subsequent These suggest is sensitive site these are sensitized prior exposure AVP. While observed after mediated via receptors resemble type, effect may multiple system. study syggests neurotransmitter neuromodulator behavior, function as one CNS mediation such