Decreased density of benzodiazepine receptors in lymphocytes of anxious patients: reversal after chronic diazepam treatment.
Peripheral-type benzodiazepine receptors were measured in human circulating lymphocytes using 3H-PK 11195 as specific ligand. In a group of outpatients with anxiety disorders a significant decrease of receptor density (-37%) was found compared with age-matched controls. In these patients long-term diazepam treatment restored binding density to normal levels: the effect persisted after drug withdrawal. Acute i.v. diazepam administration did not change receptor density. The observed receptor changes could reflect a down-regulation phenomenon and indicate that lymphocyte function reflect central nervous events.
Ferrarese
C
C
Department of Neurology, University of Milan, S. Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy.
Appollonio
I
I
Frigo
M
M
Perego
M
M
Piolti
R
R
Trabucchi
M
M
Frattola
L
L
D001008:Anxiety Disorders / Q000097:blood / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D003975:Diazepam / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D015536:Down-Regulation / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D008134:Long-Term Care; D008214:Lymphocytes / Q000187:drug effects*; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D010556:Personality Tests; D011963:Receptors, GABA-A / Q000187:drug effects*
D011963:Receptors, GABA-A; D003975:Diazepam