Objective: To observe the effects of L-tetrahydropalmatine (L-THP) on concentrations of neurotransmitter amino acids in mice with cerebral ischemia and to discuss the mechanisms of L-THP in tyreating cerebral ischemia.
Method: Mice were randomly divided into six groups: control group, cerebral ischemia group, L-THP treated group (doses were 14, 28, 56 mg x kg(-1) respectively) and Ginkgo biloba extract treated group. Concentrations of Glu and GABA were determined by HPLC.
Result: Compared with control group, Glu and GABA in mice with cerebral ischemia were much higher. The ratio of Glu/GABA increased significantly. L-THP markedly reduced the concentrations of Glu and the ratio of Glu/GABA in mice with cerebral ischemia.
Conclusion: Decrease in Glu concertration and ratio of Glu/GABA may be one of the mechanisms of L-THP in treating cerebral ischemia.