| Full text | |
| Author(s): |
Brianis, Rayssa C.
;
Lima, Rita C.
;
Moreira, Fabricio A.
;
Aguiar, Daniele C.
Total Authors: 4
|
| Document type: | Journal article |
| Source: | Behavioural Pharmacology; v. 33, n. 2-3, p. 9-pg., 2022-04-01. |
| Abstract | |
The endocannabinoid system modulates the stress coping strategies in the dorsolateral periaqueductal grey (dlPAG). The most relevant endocannabinoids, anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) exert inhibitory control over defensive reactions mediated by the dlPAG. However, the protective role of anandamide is limited by its lack of effect in higher concentrations. Thus, the 2-AG emerges as a complementary target for developing new anxiolytic compounds. Nevertheless, the role of 2-AG on stress responsivity may vary according to the nature of the stimulus. In this study, we verified whether the dlPAG injection of 2-AG or inhibitors of its hydrolysis induce anxiolytic-like effects in male Wistar rats exposed to behavioral models in which physical stress (mild electric shock) is a critical component, namely the contextual fear conditioning test (CFC) and the Vogel conflict test (VCT). We also investigated the contribution of cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) and type 2 (CB2) in such effects. The facilitation of 2-AG signaling in the dlPAG reduced contextual fear expression and exhibited an anxiolytic-like effect in the VCT in a mechanism dependent on activation of CB1 and CB2. However, the VCT required a higher dose than CFC. Further, the monoacylglycerol inhibitors, which inhibit the hydrolysis of 2-AG, were effective only in the CFC. In conclusion, we confirmed the anti-aversive properties of 2-AG in the dlPAG through CB1 and CB2 mechanisms. However, these effects could vary according to the type of stressor and the anxiety model employed. (AU) | |
| FAPESP's process: | 17/24304-0 - New perspectives in the use of drugs that modify atypical neurotransmitters in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders |
| Grantee: | Francisco Silveira Guimaraes |
| Support Opportunities: | Research Projects - Thematic Grants |