Mechanisms of neurotransmitter release by amphetamines: a review.
Prog Neurobiol
; 75(6): 406-33, 2005 Apr.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-15955613
ABSTRACT
Amphetamine and substituted amphetamines, including methamphetamine, methylphenidate (Ritalin), methylenedioxymethamphetamine (ecstasy), and the herbs khat and ephedra, encompass the only widely administered class of drugs that predominantly release neurotransmitter, in this case principally catecholamines, by a non-exocytic mechanism. These drugs play important medicinal and social roles in many cultures, exert profound effects on mental function and behavior, and can produce neurodegeneration and addiction. Numerous questions remain regarding the unusual molecular mechanisms by which these compounds induce catecholamine release. We review current issues on the two apparent primary mechanisms--the redistribution of catecholamines from synaptic vesicles to the cytosol, and induction of reverse transport of transmitter through plasma membrane uptake carriers--and on additional drug effects that affect extracellular catecholamine levels, including uptake inhibition, effects on exocytosis, neurotransmitter synthesis, and metabolism.
Buscar no Google
Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Membranas Sinápticas
/
Catecolaminas
/
Terminações Pré-Sinápticas
/
Neurotransmissores
/
Anfetaminas
Limite:
Animals
/
Humans
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Prog Neurobiol
Ano de publicação:
2005
Tipo de documento:
Article