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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

The anxiolytic-like effects of cannabidiol injected into the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis are mediated by 5-HT1A receptors

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Author(s):
Gomes, Felipe V. [1] ; Resstel, Leonardo B. M. [1] ; Guimaraes, Francisco S. [1]
Total Authors: 3
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Dept Pharmacol, Sch Med, BR-14049900 Sao Paulo - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 1
Document type: Journal article
Source: Psychopharmacology; v. 213, n. 2-3, p. 465-473, FEB 2011.
Web of Science Citations: 88
Abstract

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychotomimetic compound from Cannabis sativa that induces anxiolytic-like effects in rodents and humans after systemic administration. Previous results from our group showed that CBD injection into the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) attenuates conditioned aversive responses. The aim of this study was to further investigate the role of this region on the anxiolytic effects of the CBD. Moreover, considering that CBD can activate 5-HT1A receptors, we also verified a possible involvement of these receptors in those effects. Male Wistar rats received injections of CBD (15, 30, or 60 nmol) into the BNST and were exposed to the elevated plus-maze (EPM) or to the Vogel conflict test (VCT), two widely used animal models of anxiety. CBD increased open arms exploration in the EPM as well as the number of punished licks in the VCT, suggesting an anxiolytic-like effect. The drug did not change the number of entries into the enclosed arms of the EPM nor interfered with water consumption or nociceptive threshold, discarding potential confounding factors in the two tests. Moreover, pretreatment with the 5-HT1A receptor antagonist WAY100635 (0.37 nmol) blocked the effects of CBD in both models. These results give further support to the proposal that BNST is involved in the anxiolytic-like effects of CBD observed after systemic administration, probably by facilitating local 5-HT1A receptor-mediated neurotransmission. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 07/03685-3 - Typical and atypical neurotransmitters in neuropsychiatric disorders
Grantee:Francisco Silveira Guimaraes
Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants