A systemically administered neurotensin agonist blocks disruption of prepulse inhibition produced by a serotonin-2A agonist

Neuropsychopharmacology. 2003 Apr;28(4):651-3. doi: 10.1038/sj.npp.1300083. Epub 2002 Oct 10.

Abstract

Prepulse inhibition (PPI) of the startle reflex can be disrupted by drugs that act as agonists at the serotonin (5-HT) 2A receptor, such as DOI, and this effect is blocked by drugs that inhibit 5-HT2A transmission. We tested the effects of systemic administration of PD149163, a neurotensin agonist, on DOI-induced disruption of PPI in Sprague-Dawley rats. PD149163 completely and dose dependently blocked the PPI deficits produced by DOI. These findings suggest that, in addition to their established ability to inhibit dopamine transmission, neurotensin agonists may also inhibit 5-HT2A transmission, a pharmacological feature associated with atypical antipsychotic drugs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antipsychotic Agents / pharmacology*
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Injections, Subcutaneous
  • Male
  • Neurotensin / agonists*
  • Neurotensin / physiology
  • Rats
  • Rats, Sprague-Dawley
  • Receptor, Serotonin, 5-HT2A
  • Receptors, Serotonin / physiology*
  • Reflex, Startle / drug effects*
  • Reflex, Startle / physiology
  • Serotonin Receptor Agonists / pharmacology*

Substances

  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • PD 149163
  • Receptor, Serotonin, 5-HT2A
  • Receptors, Serotonin
  • Serotonin Receptor Agonists
  • Neurotensin