Abstract
Serotonergic agents usually attenuate light-induced phase shifts in nocturnal species. L-5-Hydroytrytptophan (5-HTP) is a non-specific serotonergic agonist and the natural precursor of serotonin. We investigated the ability of 5-HTP to potentiate or attenuate light-induced phase shifts using a comparatively lower intensity of light (∼70 lux). Mice free-running in DD were given either light exposure at circadian times (CTs) 15 and 21 with saline (light-exposed control) or 50 mg/kg of 5-HTP (Himedia) at 0.5 circadian h prior to light exposure. L-5-Hydroytrytptophan potentiated the phase advance of the rhythm caused by light at CT 21; however, 5-HTP fails to significantly attenuate/potentiate phase delays. Total activity increased during phase advance potentiation, compared to control, indicating that this phenomenon may possibly be at least partially behavioral arousal-dependent. These preliminary findings are interesting and unexpected; further experimentation is necessary, and the results indicate possible scope for use of 5-HTP in chronotherapy.
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