Abstract
In this study we tested the hypothesis that the efficacy of l-glutamate to stimulate [ 3H]MK-801 binding to the NMDA receptor/channel complex is altered as a function of aging. l-Glutamate, or related excitatory amino acid (EAA), is the endogenous neurotransmitter of the NMDA receptor/channel complex. These studies examined the efficacy and potency with which l-glutamate produces receptor activation, channel opening and subsequent MK-801 binding as a function of increasing age by comparing dose-response curves ( EC 50 and E max) from 6-, 12-, and 24-month-old F-344 rats. The number of NMDA receptors, as determined by [ 3H]MK-801 binding in the presence of a saturating concentration of l-glutamate, was reduced in the inner frontal cortex, entorhinal cortex and the lateral striatum in aged rats when compared with young adults. When a range of l-glutamate concentrations were used, differences in E max were noted in the same brain regions in addition to several others in aged and middle-aged animals when compared with young-adult animals. No changes in EC 50 values were noted in any of the brain regions at either age when compared with young-adults.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
