ΔFosB induction correlates inversely with CB₁ receptor desensitization in a brain region-dependent manner following repeated Δ⁹-THC administration.

ABSTRACT: Repeated Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) administration produces desensitization and downregulation of cannabinoid type 1 receptors (CB₁Rs) in the brain, but the magnitude of these adaptations varies among regions. CB₁Rs in the striatum and its output regions exhibit the least magnitude and slowest development of desensitization and downregulation. The molecular mechanisms that confer these region-dependent differences are not known. The stable transcription factor, ΔFosB, is induced in the striatum following repeated THC administration and could regulate CB₁Rs. To directly compare the regional profile of ΔFosB induction and CB₁R desensitization and downregulation, mice were treated with THC (10 mg/kg) or vehicle for 13.5 days. CP55,940-stimulated [(35)S]GTPγS autoradiography and immunohis

SUBMITTER: Lazenka MF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3888085 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature