Abstract
The midbrain periaqueductal gray matter (PAG) has a critical role in the modulation of behavioral and autonomic manifestations of the opiate withdrawal syndrome. We report a nearly 5-fold increase in proTRH gene expression in neurons of the ventrolateral column of the PAG following naltrexone precipitated morphine withdrawal. The accumulation of immunoreactive proTRH-derived peptides, but not the mature TRH tripeptide was concomitantly observed in these cells. These findings indicate that proTRH-derived peptides synthesized in neurons of the ventrolateral PAG may function as modifiers of opiate withdrawal responses.
Publication types
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Gene Expression Regulation / drug effects*
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Immunohistochemistry
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In Situ Hybridization
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Male
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Morphine / adverse effects
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Naltrexone / pharmacology
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Narcotic Antagonists / pharmacology
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Narcotics / adverse effects*
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Neurons / drug effects
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Neurons / metabolism
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Periaqueductal Gray / cytology
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Periaqueductal Gray / drug effects*
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Periaqueductal Gray / metabolism
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Protein Precursors / genetics*
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Radioimmunoassay
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Rats
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Rats, Sprague-Dawley
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Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / metabolism*
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Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone / genetics*
Substances
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Narcotic Antagonists
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Narcotics
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Protein Precursors
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Naltrexone
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Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone
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Morphine