Abstract
The dopaminergic mesolimbic system is considered to be crucial in rewarding actions of opiates. Recent studies have suggested probable interaction between the renin-angiotensin and mesolimbic dopaminergic systems. The present study was undertaken to investigate the effects of Ang II and captopril injection into VTA on morphine self-administration. Male Wistar rats were initially trained to receive small pellets of food by pressing the active lever in self-administration apparatus. The animals were divided into 4 groups (saline, morphine, captopril and Ang II) and were placed in self-administration apparatus and allowed to self-administer morphine (0.5 mg per infusion all test groups) or saline (saline group) during consecutive days, for 2 h/sessions. Captopril (30 mug) and Ang II (0.25 nmol) were injected into the VTA in the corresponding groups before each session. The numbers of active and passive levers pressed in each group have been recorded. The number of active lever pressing of morphine group was significantly higher than saline group (p < 0.001). In Ang II group, the number of active lever pressing was significantly lower than morphine group (p < 0.01). This study suggests the probable interaction between Ang II and opioid system in the VTA.
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.
