NO synthesis inhibition decreases cortical ACh release and impairs retention of a conditioned response.
We investigated in rats the effect N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) on retention of a passive avoidance response, and cortical ACh release monitored using the microdialysis technique. Post-training administration of L-NAME impaired 24 h retention of a passive avoidance and decreased cortical ACh release. Both effects of L-NAME were reversed by L-Arg. These results suggest that nitric oxide is involved in retention of the passive avoidance response through the modulation of the forebrain cholinergic system.
Munchner Technologiezentrum, IDEA-AG, Frankfurter Ring 193a, 80087, Munich, Germany.
S R
SR
Kopf
R S
RS
Benton
R
R
Kalfin
M G
MG
Giovannini
G
G
Pepeu
D000109:Acetylcholine / Q000378:metabolism*; D000818:Animals; D001120:Arginine / Q000494:pharmacology*; D001362:Avoidance Learning / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000502:physiology; D002540:Cerebral Cortex / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism; D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000494:pharmacology*; D008297:Male; D019331:NG-Nitroarginine Methyl Ester / Q000494:pharmacology*; D009569:Nitric Oxide / Q000378:metabolism; D051381:Rats; D017208:Rats, Wistar; D012153:Retention, Psychology / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000502:physiology
D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors; D009569:Nitric Oxide; D001120:Arginine; D000109:Acetylcholine; D019331:NG-Nitroarginine Methyl Ester