Suppression of the locomotor effects of DOPA by diethyldithiocarbonate in the rabbit

Abstract

Mesencephalic, curarized rabbits can develop ‘locomotor’ discharges with alternating phases of flexions and extensions in hind limb nerves.Moreover, DOPA was shown to exaggerate the extensor activity as compared to that in the flexor. It is shown here that diethyldithiocarbamate, a dopamine-β-hydroxylase inhibitor, suppresses discharges in extensor nerves and that a subsequent injection of DOPA isgenerally no more active. It is concluded that the supraspinal extensor activation in locomotion is depending upon synthesis of norepinephrine and not that of dopamine.