Propranolol inhibits myocardial infarction-induced brown adipose tissue D2 activation and maintains a low thyroid hormone state in rats.

Considering the recognized role of thyroid hormones on the cardiovascular system during health and disease, we hypothesized that type 2 deiodinase (D2) activity, the main activation pathway of thyroxine (T4)-to-triiodothyronine (T3), could be an important site to modulate thyroid hormone status, which would then constitute a possible target for ß-adrenergic blocking agents in a myocardial infarction (MI) model induced by left coronary occlusion in rats. Despite a sustained and dramatic fall in serum T4 concentrations (60-70%), the serum T3 concentration fell only transiently in the first week post-infarction (53%) and returned to control levels at 8 and 12 weeks after surgery compared to the Sham group (P<0.05). Brown adipose tissue (BAT) D2 activity (fmol T4·min-1·mg ptn-1) was significantly increased by approximately 77% in the 8th week and approximately 100% in the 12th week in the MI group compared to that of the Sham group (P<0.05). Beta-blocker treatment (0.5 g/L propranolol given in the drinking water) maintained a low T3 state in MI animals, dampening both BAT D2 activity (44% reduction) and serum T3 (66% reduction in serum T3) compared to that of the non-treated MI group 12 weeks after surgery (P<0.05). Propranolol improved cardiac function (assessed by echocardiogram) in the MI group compared to the non-treated MI group by 40 and 57%, 1 and 12 weeks after treatment, respectively (P<0.05). Our data suggested that the beta-adrenergic pathway may contribute to BAT D2 hyperactivity and T3 normalization after MI in rats. Propranolol treatment maintained low T3 state and improved cardiac function additionally.

Propranolol inhibits myocardial infarction-induced brown adipose tissue D2 activation and maintains a low thyroid hormone state in rats

Considering the recognized role of thyroid hormones on the cardiovascular system during health and disease, we hypothesized that type 2 deiodinase (D2) activity, the main activation pathway of thyroxine (T4)-to-triiodothyronine (T3), could be an important site to modulate thyroid hormone status, which would then constitute a possible target for β-adrenergic blocking agents in a myocardial infarction (MI) model induced by left coronary occlusion in rats. Despite a sustained and dramatic fall in serum T4 concentrations (60-70%), the serum T3 concentration fell only transiently in the first week post-infarction (53%) and returned to control levels at 8 and 12 weeks after surgery compared to the Sham group (P<0.05). Brown adipose tissue (BAT) D2 activity (fmol T4·min-1·mg ptn-1) was significantly increased by approximately 77% in the 8th week and approximately 100% in the 12th week in the MI group compared to that of the Sham group (P<0.05). Beta-blocker treatment (0.5 g/L propranolol given in the drinking water) maintained a low T3 state in MI animals, dampening both BAT D2 activity (44% reduction) and serum T3 (66% reduction in serum T3) compared to that of the non-treated MI group 12 weeks after surgery (P<0.05). Propranolol improved cardiac function (assessed by echocardiogram) in the MI group compared to the non-treated MI group by 40 and 57%, 1 and 12 weeks after treatment, respectively (P<0.05). Our data suggested that the beta-adrenergic pathway may contribute to BAT D2 hyperactivity and T3 normalization after MI in rats. Propranolol treatment maintained low T3 state and improved cardiac function additionally.

Inhibition of brain renin-angiotensin system improves diastolic cardiac function following myocardial infarction in rats.

1. Recently, we demonstrated that oral captopril treatment improved diastolic function and attenuated cardiac remodelling after myocardial infarction (MI) in rats. Considering the feasible role of the brain renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in heart failure, in the present study we investigated the role of the captopril injected intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.) on the progression of cardiac dysfunction. 2. Male Wistar rats underwent experimental MI or sham operation. Infarcted animals received daily i.c.v. injections of captopril (approximately 200 mg/kg; MI + Cap) or saline (MI) from 11 to 18 days after infarction. Electro- and echocardiogram assessments were performed before and after i.c.v. treatment (10 and 18 days after MI, respectively). Water and hypertonic saline ingestion were determined daily between 12 and 16 days after MI. 3. Electrocardiograms from the MI and MI + Cap groups showed signs that resembled large MI before and after i.c.v. treatment. However, despite similar systolic dysfunction observed in both groups, only captopril-treated rats exhibited reduced left ventricular (LV) dilatation and improved LV filling, as assessed by echocardiograms, and low levels of water ingestion compared with the saline-treated control group. 4. The results of the present study suggest that the brain RAS may participate in the development of cardiac dysfunction induced by ischaemia and that inhibition of the brain RAS may provide a new strategy for the prevention of diastolic dysfunction.

Effect of L-5-Hydroxytryptophan on drinking behavior in Coturnix japonica (Temminck and Schlegel, 1849) (Galliformes: Aves): involvement of renin-angiotensin system

The purpose of this study was to explore the role of L-5-hydroxytryptophan (L-HTP) and its relationship with the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) on the drinking behavior in Japanese quails. Normally-hydrated quails that received injections of L-HTP (12.5; 25 and 50 mg.kg-1) by the intracoelomic route (ic) expressed an increase in water intake, which was inhibited by captopril, an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. In addition, captopril also induced such a response in birds under previous fluid deprivation. High doses of captopril (35-70 mg.kg-1, sc) in normally-hydrated quails decreased the spontaneous water intake while low doses of captopril (2-5 mg.kg-1, sc) did not prompt water intake after L-HTP administration. Losartan, an AT1 receptor antagonist in mammals, did not change the water intake levels in normally-hydrated or water-deprivated birds. Serotonin (5-HT) injections did not provoke its known dipsogenic response.

O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a influência do L-5-hidroxitriptofano (L-HTP) e sua relação com o sistema renina-angiotensina (SRA) no comportamento dipsogênico de codornas. Codornas normohidratadas que receberam L-HTP em diferentes doses (12,5; 25 e 50 mg.kg-1) por via intracelomática (ic) expressaram um aumento na ingestão de água, o qual foi suprimido pela administração prévia de captopril (inibidor da ECA-enzima conversora de angiotensina). Esta ação inibitória do captopril, em menor intensidade, foi também evidenciada em aves previamente submetidas ao jejum hídrico. O tratamento isolado com captopril (35-70 mg.kg-1) reduziu consideravelmente a ingestão espontânea de água em codornas normohidratadas, enquanto baixas doses (2-5 mg.kg-1) não provocaram aumento na ingestão de água induzida pelo L-HTP. Losartan, um antagonista de receptores AT1 em mamíferos, não foi capaz de modificar os níveis de ingestão hídrica, tanto em aves normohidratadas quanto em aves privadas de água. Serotonina aplicada perifericamente não promoveu a conhecida resposta dipsogênica de mamíferos.

Nocturnal plasma levels of melatonin in quails (Coturnix japonica) injected with l-5-hydroxy-tryptophan.

This study aimed to demonstrate the influence of the systemic administration of l-5-hydroxy-tryptophan (L-HTP) on the plasma levels of melatonin during the dark period in quails. Throughout daylight, the plasma levels of melatonin did not differ significantly, oscillating between 110.2 +/- 15.8 pg.mL(-1) and 157.4 +/- 34.8 pg.mL(-1), from 8 to 16 hours. L-HTP (25 mg.kg(-1), through the intracelomic route) administered at 18 hours lessened significantly the nocturnal increase of the plasma levels of melatonin (controls, 327.3 +/- 20.1 and 315.8 +/- 20.9 pg.mL(-1) vs. 242.1 +/- 24.8 and 217.5 +/- 21 pg.mL(-1), respectively, at 20 and 24 hours, P < 0.05). The results obtained showed that the administration of LHTP reduced the nocturnal melatonin release, possibly by bringing about an increase in serotonin synthesis and synaptic release in the pineal. Therefore, the serotoninergic transmission from the raphe towards the pineal would constitute a mechanism of modulation of the synthesis and melatonin release in quails.

Noradrenergic stimulation within midbrain raphe increases electrolyte excretion in rats.

The present study was carried out to assess the influence of noradrenergic stimulation of the midbrain dorsal (DRN) and median raphe nuclei (MRN) on urinary volume and electrolyte excretion in hydrated rats. Wistar rats were implanted with a guide cannula into the MRN or DRN and then submitted to two intragastric administrations of water in order to attain an increased diuresis. The following treatments were performed. (1) Intra-DRN microinjections of saline (0.2 microl), alpha(1)-adrenergic agonist phenylephrine (PHE, 0.49 and 4.9 nmol in 0.2 microl), alpha(2)-adrenergic antagonist idazoxan (IDZ, 0.42 and 4.2 nmol in 0.2 microl) or the alpha(1)-adrenergic antagonist prazosin (PRZ, 0.24 and 2.4 nmol in 0.2 microl). (2) Intra-MRN microinjections of saline, IDZ (4.2 nmol in 0.2 microl), PHE (4.9 nmol in 0.2 microl) or PRZ (2.4 nmol in 0.2 microl). Urine samples were subsequently collected over 120 min at 20 min intervals for photometric measurement of sodium and potassium. Intra-DRN administration of PHE and IDZ significantly increased the urinary volume, natriuresis and kaliuresis. Intra-DRN microinjection of a higher dose of PRZ reduced the urinary volume and both sodium and potassium excretion. Intra-MRN microinjections of PHE, IDZ or PRZ did not induce any significant effect on urinary volume or electrolyte excretion. These data suggest that the increase of tonic excitatory noradrenergic input conveyed to DRN influences the hydroelectrolyte homeostasis, possibly through 5-HTergic circuitry.

Behavioral and neuropharmacological evidence that serotonin crosses the blood-brain barrier in Coturnix japonica (Galliformes; Aves).

This study was carried out aiming to reach behavioral and neuropharmacological evidence of the permeability of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) to serotonin systemically administered in quails. Serotonin injected by a parenteral route (250-1000 microg x kg(-1), sc) elicited a sequence of behavioral events concerned with a sleeping-like state. Sleeping-like behaviors began with feather bristling, rapid oral movements, blinking and finally crouching and closure of the eyes. Previous administration of 5-HT2C antagonist, LY53857 (3 mg x kg(-1), sc) reduced the episodes of feather bristling and rapid oral movements significantly but without altering the frequency of blinking and closure of the eyes. Treatment with the 5-HT2A/2C antagonist, ketanserin (3 mg x kg(-1), sc) did not affect any of the responses evoked by the serotonin. Quipazine (5 mg x kg(-1), sc) a 5-HT2A/2C/3 agonist induced intense hypomotility, long periods of yawning-like and sleeping-like states. Previous ketanserin suppressed gaping responses and reduced hypomotility, rapid oral movements and bristling but was ineffective for remaining responses induced by quipazine. Results showed that unlike mammals, serotonin permeates the BBB and activates hypnogenic mechanisms in quails. Studies using serotoninergic agonist and antagonists have disclosed that among the actions of the serotonin, feather bristling, rapid oral movements and yawning-like state originated from activation of 5-HT2 receptors while blinking and closure of the eyes possibly require other subtypes of receptors.

Nocturnal plasma levels of melatonin in quails (Coturnix japonica) injected with l-5-hydroxy-tryptophan

This study aimed to demonstrate the influence of the systemic administration of l-5-hydroxy-tryptophan (L-HTP) on the plasma levels of melatonin during the dark period in quails. Throughout daylight, the plasma levels of melatonin did not differ significantly, oscillating between 110.2 ± 15.8 pg.mL-1 and 157.4 ± 34.8 pg.mL-1, from 8 to 16 hours. L-HTP (25 mg.kg-1, through the intracelomic route) administered at 18 hours lessened significantly the nocturnal increase of the plasma levels of melatonin (controls, 327.3 ± 20.1 and 315.8 ± 20.9 pg.mL-1 vs. 242.1 ± 24.8 and 217.5 ± 21 pg.mL-1, respectively, at 20 and 24 hours, P < 0.05). The results obtained showed that the administration of LHTP reduced the nocturnal melatonin release, possibly by bringing about an increase in serotonin synthesis and synaptic release in the pineal. Therefore, the serotoninergic transmission from the raphe towards the pineal would constitute a mechanism of modulation of the synthesis and melatonin release in quails.

Este trabalho objetivou demonstrar a influência da administração sistêmica de l-5-hidroxi-triptofano (L-HTP) sobre os níveis plasmáticos de melatonina durante o período noturno em codornas. Ao longo do período claro, os níveis plasmáticos de melatonina não diferiram significativamente, oscilando entre 110,2 ± 15,8 pg.mL-1 e 157,4 ± 34,8 pg.mL-1, de 8 às 16 horas. L-HTP (25 mg.kg-1, via intracelomática), administrado às 18 horas atenuou significativamente a elevação noturna dos níveis plasmáticos de melatonina (controles, 327,3 ± 20,1 e 315,8 ± 20,9 pg.mL-1 vs. 242,1 ± 24,8 e 217,5 ± 21 pg.mL-1, respectivamente, às 20 e 24 horas, P < 0,05). Os resultados obtidos mostraram que a administração de L-HTP reduziu a liberação noturna de melatonina, possivelmente por suscitar um aumento da síntese e liberação sináptica de serotonina na pineal. Portanto, a transmissão serotoninérgica da rafe para a pineal constituiria um mecanismo de modulação da síntese e/ou liberação de melatonina em codornas.

Behavioral and neuropharmacological evidence that serotonin crosses the blood-brain barrier in Coturnix japonica (Galliformes; Aves)

This study was carried out aiming to reach behavioral and neuropharmacological evidence of the permeability of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) to serotonin systemically administered in quails. Serotonin injected by a parenteral route (250-1000 æg.kg-1, sc) elicited a sequence of behavioral events concerned with a sleeping-like state. Sleeping-like behaviors began with feather bristling, rapid oral movements, blinking and finally crouching and closure of the eyes. Previous administration of 5-HT2C antagonist, LY53857 (3 mg.kg-1, sc) reduced the episodes of feather bristling and rapid oral movements significantly but without altering the frequency of blinking and closure of the eyes. Treatment with the 5-HT2A/2C antagonist, ketanserin (3 mg.kg-1, sc) did not affect any of the responses evoked by the serotonin. Quipazine (5 mg.kg-1, sc) a 5-HT2A/2C/3 agonist induced intense hypomotility, long periods of yawning-like and sleeping-like states. Previous ketanserin suppressed gaping responses and reduced hypomotility, rapid oral movements and bristling but was ineffective for remaining responses induced by quipazine. Results showed that unlike mammals, serotonin permeates the BBB and activates hypnogenic mechanisms in quails. Studies using serotoninergic agonist and antagonists have disclosed that among the actions of the serotonin, feather bristling, rapid oral movements and yawning-like state originated from activation of 5-HT2 receptors while blinking and closure of the eyes possibly require other subtypes of receptors.

Este estudo foi desenvolvido objetivando ampliar as evidências comportamentais e neurofarmacológicas da permeabilidade da barreira hematoencefálica (BHE) à serotonina administrada sistemicamente em codornas. A serotonina injetada por via parenteral (250-1000 æg.kg-1, sc) produziu uma seqüência de eventos relacionados com um estado semelhante ao sono. Comportamentos semelhantes ao sono começaram com o eriçamento das penas, movimentos orais rápidos, piscadelas e finalmente agachamento e fechamento dos olhos. A administração prévia do antagonista do receptor 5-HT2C, LY53857 (3 mg.kg-1, sc) reduziu significativamente os episódios de eriçamento das penas e movimentos orais rápidos, mas não alterou a freqüência de piscadelas e fechamento dos olhos. Tratamento com o antagonista do receptor 5-HT2A/2C, quetanserina (3 mg.kg-1, sc) não afetou nenhuma das respostas evocadas pela serotonina. A quipazina (5 mg.kg-1, sc), um agonista dos receptores 5-HT2A/2C/3, induziu intensa hipomotilidade e longos períodos de comportamentos semelhantes ao bocejo e ao sono. O tratamento prévio com quetanserina suprimiu as reações de bocejo e reduziu a hipomotilidade, os movimentos orais rápidos e as piscadelas, mas foi sem efeito para as demais respostas induzidas pela quipazina. Os resultados mostraram que, diferentemente dos mamíferos, a serotonina atravessa a BHE e ativa mecanismos hipnogênicos em codornas. Estudos com agonistas serotoninérgicos e antagonistas revelaram que, entre as ações da serotonina, o eriçamento das penas, os movimentos orais rápidos e o comportamento semelhante ao bocejo foram originados pela ativação de receptores 5-HT2, enquanto o piscar e o fechamento dos olhos possivelmente requereu outros subtipos de receptores.

Effect of L-5-Hydroxytryptophan on drinking behavior in Coturnix japonica (Temminck and Schlegel, 1849) (Galliformes: Aves): involvement of renin-angiotensin system.

The purpose of this study was to explore the role of L-5-hydroxytryptophan (L-HTP) and its relationship with the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) on the drinking behavior in Japanese quails. Normally-hydrated quails that received injections of L-HTP (12.5; 25 and 50 mg.kg-1) by the intracoelomic route (ic) expressed an increase in water intake, which was inhibited by captopril, an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. In addition, captopril also induced such a response in birds under previous fluid deprivation. High doses of captopril (35-70 mg.kg-1, sc) in normally-hydrated quails decreased the spontaneous water intake while low doses of captopril (2-5 mg.kg-1, sc) did not prompt water intake after L-HTP administration. Losartan, an AT1 receptor antagonist in mammals, did not change the water intake levels in normally-hydrated or water-deprivated birds. Serotonin (5-HT) injections did not provoke its known dipsogenic response.

Chronic excitotoxic lesion of the dorsal raphe nucleus induces sodium appetite.

We determined if the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) exerts tonic control of basal and stimulated sodium and water intake. Male Wistar rats weighing 300-350 g were microinjected with phosphate buffer (PB-DRN, N = 11) or 1 microg/0.2 microl, in a single dose, ibotenic acid (IBO-DRN, N = 9 to 10) through a guide cannula into the DRN and were observed for 21 days in order to measure basal sodium appetite and water intake and in the following situations: furosemide-induced sodium depletion (20 mg/kg, sc, 24 h before the experiment) and a low dose of dietary captopril (1 mg/g chow). From the 6th day after ibotenic acid injection IBO-DRN rats showed an increase in sodium appetite (12.0 +/- 2.3 to 22.3 +/- 4.6 ml 0.3 M NaCl intake) whereas PB-DRN did not exceed 2 ml (P < 0.001). Water intake was comparable in both groups. In addition to a higher dipsogenic response, sodium-depleted IBO-DRN animals displayed an increase of 0.3 M NaCl intake compared to PB-DRN (37.4 +/- 3.8 vs 21.6 +/- 3.9 ml 300 min after fluid offer, P < 0.001). Captopril added to chow caused an increase of 0.3 M NaCl intake during the first 2 days (IBO-DRN, 33.8 +/- 4.3 and 32.5 +/- 3.4 ml on day 1 and day 2, respectively, vs 20.2 +/- 2.8 ml on day 0, P < 0.001). These data support the view that DRN, probably via ascending serotonergic system, tonically modulates sodium appetite under basal and sodium depletion conditions and/or after an increase in peripheral or brain angiotensin II.

Influence of serotonergic transmission and postsynaptic 5-HT2C action on the feeding behavior of Coturnix japonica (Galliformes: Aves)

Investigamos nesse estudo o papel dos receptores 5-HT2C e da transmissão serotonérgica no controle do comportamento alimentar em codornas. Em grupo de aves em jejum, a administração do liberador de serotonina, fenfluramina (FEN) e dos agonistas 5-HT2C, mCPP e MK212, nas doses de 1,0 e 3,3 mg/Kg induziu a uma redução significativa da ingestão alimentar (0,71 ± 0,18 g e 0,47 ± 0,2 g; 0,49 ± 0,22 g e 0,48 ± 0,29 g; 0,82 ± 0,13 g e 0,71 ± 0,16 g; respectivamente). A ingestão de alimento nos grupos controles variou de 2,89 ± 0,21 g a 2,97 ± 0,22 g, 60 min após a reapresentação de alimento, P < 0,0001). Resultados similares foram obtidos com as codornas normoalimentadas. Tanto o liberador de serotonina, FEN, quanto os agonistas 5-HT2C, mCPP e MK212 em doses de 3,3 mg/Kg induziram resposta hipofágica (FEN, 0,78 ± 0,08 g; mCPP, 0,89 ± 0,07 g; MK212, 1,25 ± 0,17 g vs. controles, 2,05 ± 0,12 g, 120 min após a oferta de alimento, P < 0.0001 a P < 0.01). A administração prévia do antagonista 5-HT2C, LY53857 (5,0 mg/Kg) bloqueou a resposta hipofágica induzida pelos agonistas 5-HT2C, 60 min após a apresentação de alimento. Os resultados obtidos demonstram o papel modulatório da liberação de serotonina e dos receptores pós-sinápticos 5-HT2C, no controle do comportamento alimentar de codornas.

Chronic excitotoxic lesion of the dorsal raphe nucleus induces sodium appetite

We determined if the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) exerts tonic control of basal and stimulated sodium and water intake. Male Wistar rats weighing 300-350 g were microinjected with phosphate buffer (PB-DRN, N = 11) or 1 æg/0.2 æl, in a single dose, ibotenic acid (IBO-DRN, N = 9 to 10) through a guide cannula into the DRN and were observed for 21 days in order to measure basal sodium appetite and water intake and in the following situations: furosemide-induced sodium depletion (20 mg/kg, sc, 24 h before the experiment) and a low dose of dietary captopril (1 mg/g chow). From the 6th day after ibotenic acid injection IBO-DRN rats showed an increase in sodium appetite (12.0 ± 2.3 to 22.3 ± 4.6 ml 0.3 M NaCl intake) whereas PB-DRN did not exceed 2 ml (P < 0.001). Water intake was comparable in both groups. In addition to a higher dipsogenic response, sodium-depleted IBO-DRN animals displayed an increase of 0.3 M NaCl intake compared to PB-DRN (37.4 ± 3.8 vs 21.6 ± 3.9 ml 300 min after fluid offer, P < 0.001). Captopril added to chow caused an increase of 0.3 M NaCl intake during the first 2 days (IBO-DRN, 33.8 ± 4.3 and 32.5 ± 3.4 ml on day 1 and day 2, respectively, vs 20.2 ± 2.8 ml on day 0, P < 0.001). These data support the view that DRN, probably via ascending serotonergic system, tonically modulates sodium appetite under basal and sodium depletion conditions and/or after an increase in peripheral or brain angiotensin II.

Cardiac effects of oxytocin: is there a role for this peptide in cardiovascular homeostasis?

Oxytocin is well known for its role in reproduction. However, evidence has emerged suggesting a role in cardiovascular and hydroelectrolytic homeostasis. Although its renal effects have been characterized, the cardiac ones have not been much studied. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the cardiac effects of oxytocin both in vivo and in vitro. In unanesthetized rats (n=6) intravenous oxytocin (1 mug) decreased dP/dt(max) by 15% (P<0.05) and heart rate by 20% (P<0.001), at the first minute after injection. dP/dt(max) was still lower in OT-treated rats than in controls (n=8) after 15 min (P<0.05), while heart rate returned to control values after 5 min. In isolated hearts, oxytocin was able to promote negative inotropic and chronotropic effects. Perfusion with 10(-5), 10(-6) and 10(-7)M oxytocin resulted in approximately 60% (P<0.01), 25% (P<0.01) and 10% (P<0.05) reduction of left ventricle developed pressure, without effect in lower concentrations (10(-10) to 10(-8) M). Also, dP/dt(max) was reduced by 45 and 20% (10(-5) e 10(-6) M; P<0.01), while diastolic pressure raised and heart rate fell only with 10(-5)M oxytocin (P<0.05). Intravenous oxytocin (1 mug; n=6) increased arterial pressure by 22% at the first minute (+23+/-3 mm Hg; P<0.001), returning to control value thereafter. Thus, oxytocin is able to promote directly negative inotropic and chronotropic effects, but its in vivo effect also involves a reflex mechanism, originated from its pressor effect.

Evidence indicating participation of the serotonergic system in controlling feeding behavior in Coturnix japonica (Galliformes: Aves).

We investigated participation of the brain serotonergic system in food intake control by using oral and systemic administration of serotonin precursors in quails (Coturnix japonica). Dietary supplemental tryptophan (0.1-50.0 g/kg) provoked a dose-dependent inhibition of food intake during a 5-h observation period, which persisted up to 24 h for doses of 30.0 and 50.0 g/kg. Normally fed and fasted animals treated with hydroxytryptophan (12.5-50.0 mg/kg) by the intracoelomic route showed an acute inhibition of food intake. Hypophagia in fasted birds was only effective when the precursor was administered immediately before food presentation. A similar response was obtained by administering serotonin (0.125-2.5 mg/kg, sc), with animals showing a hypnogenic response within the first ten minutes after administration, suggesting that, in contrast to mammals, the amine crosses the blood-brain barrier in quails. Administration of hydroxytryptophan at all doses tested induced significant dipsogenic behavior despite the concomitant hypnogenic response. The results suggest the involvement of serotonergic pathways in food intake control in quails and also show, for the first time, hypnogenic action induced by serotonin and a hyperdipsic effect elicited by hydroxytryptophan.

Evidence indicating participation of the serotonergic system in controlling feeding behavior in Coturnix japonica (Galliformes: Aves)

Investigamos a participação do sistema serotonérgico cerebral no controle da ingestão de alimento em codornas (Coturnix japonica) por meio da administração oral e sistêmica de precursores da serotonina. A suplementação dietética com triptofano (0,1-50,0 g/kg de ração) provocou inibição dose-dependente da ingestão de alimento em 5 h de avaliação, que se manteve ao final de 24 h com doses de 30,0 e 50,0 g/kg. Codornas tratadas com hidroxitriptofano (12,5-50,0 mg/kg, via intracoelomática) exibiram aguda inibição da ingestão alimentar, tanto as normoalimentadas quanto as submetidas ao jejum. Nas aves em jejum, a resposta hipofágica foi efetiva apenas quando a administração do precursor foi feita imediatamente antes da oferta de alimento. Resposta similar foi alcançada com a administração de serotonina (0,125-2,5 mg/kg, sc). Nos minutos iniciais após a administração desenvolveu-se resposta hipnogênica, implicando assunção de que essa amina atravessa a barreira hemato-encefálica em codornas, diferentemente do observado em mamíferos. A administração de hidroxitriptofano em todas as doses utilizadas induziu intensa resposta dipsogênica, não obstante o desenvolvimento concomitante de resposta hipnogênica. Os resultados sugerem o envolvimento de vias serotonérgicas no controle da ingestão de alimento em codornas e mostram pela primeira vez as ações hipnógena, induzida pela serotonina e hiperdipsética, pelo hidroxitriptofano.

Influence of serotonergic transmission anD postsynaptic 5-HT2C action on the feeding behavior of Coturnix japonica (Galliformes: Aves).

We investigated the role of 5-HT2C receptors and serotonergic transmission in the feeding behavior control of quails. Administration of serotonin releaser, fenfluramine (FEN) and 5-HT2C agonists, mCPP and MK212, 1.0 and 3.3 mg/Kg induced significant inhibition of food intake in previously fasted fowls (0.71 +/- 0.18 g and 0.47 +/- 0.2 g; 0.49 +/- 0.22 g and 0.48 +/- 0.29 g; 0.82 +/- 0.13 g and 0.71 +/- 0.16 g, respectively). Control groups ranged from 2.89 +/- 0.21 g to 2.97 +/- 0.22 g, 60 min after reintroduction of food, P < 0.0001). Similar results were obtained with normally fed quails. Both serotonin releaser and 5-HT2C agonists, in a 3.3 mg/Kg dose, induced hypophagy (FEN, 0.78 +/- 0.08 g; mCPP, 0.89 +/- 0.07 g; MK212, 1.25 +/- 0.17 g vs. controls, 2.05 +/- 0.12 g, 120 min after food was presented, P < 0.0001 to P < 0.01). Previous administration of 5-HT2C antagonist, LY53857 (5.0 mg/Kg) blocked the hypophagic response induced by 5-HT2C agonists 60 min after food was reintroduced. Current data show a modulatory role of serotonin release and postsynaptic 5-HT2C receptors in the feeding behavior of quails.

Effect of electrolytic lesion of the dorsal raphe nucleus on water intake and sodium appetite.

The present study determined the effect of an electrolytic lesion of the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) on water intake and sodium appetite. Male Wistar rats weighing 290-320 g with a lesion of the DRN (L-DRN), performed two days before experiments and confirmed by histology at the end of the experiments, presented increased sensitivity to the dehydration induced by fluid deprivation. The cumulative water intake of L-DRN rats reached 23.3 1.9 ml (a 79% increase, N = 9) while sham-lesioned rats (SL-DRN) did not exceed 13.0 1.0 ml (N = 11, P < 0.0001) after 5 h. The L-DRN rats treated with isoproterenol (300 g kg-1 ml-1, sc) exhibited an increase in water intake that persisted throughout the experimental period (L-DRN, 15.7 1.47 ml, N = 9 vs SL-DRN, 9.3 1.8 ml, N = 11, P < 0.05). The L-DRN rats also showed an increased spontaneous sodium appetite during the entire period of assessment. The intake of 0.3 M NaCl after 12, 24, 36 and 72 h by the L-DRN rats was always higher than 20.2 4.45 ml (N = 10), while the intake by SL-DRN was always lower than 2.45 0.86 ml (N = 10, P < 0.00001). Sodium- and water-depleted L-DRN rats also exhibited an increased sodium appetite (13.9 2.0 ml, N = 11) compared to SL-DRN (4.6 0.64 ml, N = 11) after 120 min of observation (P < 0.02). The sodium preference of L-DRN rats in both conditions was always higher than that of SL-DRN rats. These results suggest that electrolytic lesion of the DRN overcomes a tonic inhibitory component of sodium appetite.

Effect of electrolytic lesion of the dorsal raphe nucleus on water intake and sodium appetite

The present study determined the effect of an electrolytic lesion of the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) on water intake and sodium appetite. Male Wistar rats weighing 290-320 g with a lesion of the DRN (L-DRN), performed two days before experiments and confirmed by histology at the end of the experiments, presented increased sensitivity to the dehydration induced by fluid deprivation. The cumulative water intake of L-DRN rats reached 23.3 ± 1.9 ml (a 79 percent increase, N = 9) while sham-lesioned rats (SL-DRN) did not exceed 13.0 ± 1.0 ml (N = 11, P < 0.0001) after 5 h. The L-DRN rats treated with isoproterenol (300 æg kg-1 ml-1, sc) exhibited an increase in water intake that persisted throughout the experimental period (L-DRN, 15.7 ± 1.47 ml, N = 9 vs SL-DRN, 9.3 ± 1.8 ml, N = 11, P < 0.05). The L-DRN rats also showed an increased spontaneous sodium appetite during the entire period of assessment. The intake of 0.3 M NaCl after 12, 24, 36 and 72 h by the L-DRN rats was always higher than 20.2 ± 4.45 ml (N = 10), while the intake by SL-DRN was always lower than 2.45 ± 0.86 ml (N = 10, P < 0.00001). Sodium- and water-depleted L-DRN rats also exhibited an increased sodium appetite (13.9 ± 2.0 ml, N = 11) compared to SL-DRN (4.6 ± 0.64 ml, N = 11) after 120 min of observation (P < 0.02). The sodium preference of L-DRN rats in both conditions was always higher than that of SL-DRN rats. These results suggest that electrolytic lesion of the DRN overcomes a tonic inhibitory component of sodium appetite.

Effect of brain serotoninergic stimulation on sodium appetite of euthyroid and hypothyroid rats.

The aim of the present work was to investigate the role of the serotoninergic system in the control of sodium appetite of hypothyroid rats (HTR) by administering drugs that affect the serotoninergic activity, and to compare the same homeostatic behaviour in euthyroid rats (ETR) also given these drugs. Fenfluramine (FEN; 5.0 mg x kg(-1), I.P.), which releases serotonin in the brain, significantly reduced the intake of 1.8 % NaCl in HTR subjected to water and sodium depletion (depleted) or water, sodium and food deprivation (deprived) by 31 and 45 %, respectively, 120 min after FEN injection, compared to HTR that received vehicle alone. Similarly, administration of FEN to ETR reduced 1.8 % NaCl intake in depleted and deprived rats by 64 and 46 %, respectively. The presynaptic serotonin reuptake inhibitor fluoxetine (20.0 mg x kg(-1), I.P.) led to the inhibition of sodium appetite in HTR during the initial 30 min in depleted rats and for up to 60 min post-injection in deprived rats, while sodium appetite inhibition persisted for longer periods in ETR. The 5HT2C receptor agonist mCPP (5.0 mg x kg(-1), I.P.) caused a drastic reduction in sodium appetite in HTR and ETR in depleted and deprived rats, respectively, after 120 min. Prior administration of the 5HT2C receptor antagonist LY53857 (5.0 mg x kg(-1), I.P.) completely blocked the inhibitory action of mCPP on sodium appetite in both HTR and ETR. In summary, our results suggest that the recruitment of serotoninergic neurons involved in the modulation of sodium appetite seems to be decreased in hypothyroidism due to a probable deficiency in the cerebral signalling pathway.