Dataset Information

Neuroanatomical correlates of the inhibition of tremulous jaw movements in rats by a combination of memantine and Δ⁹ -tetrahydrocannabinol.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

Memantine and marijuana smoking have been found to inhibit tremor in parkinsonian patients, although the observed effects were relatively weak. The tremorolytic effects of combinations of memantine and cannabinoids have not been studied. Here, we have evaluated the anti-tremor activity of memantine, Δ⁹ -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) given alone and of their combination. The involvement of some neuroanatomical structures in the effects of the combination was evaluated.

Experimental approach

Haloperidol-induced tremulous jaw movements (TJMs) in rats were used as a model of parkinsonian-like tremor. To evaluate the role of central receptor systems in the drug effects, receptor ligands were administered locally into certain brain areas.

Key results

Memantine and THC alone were without effect, although co-administration of these drugs decreased the number of haloperidol-induced jaw movements. The anti-tremor activity of the combination was antagonized (a) by injections of l-glutamate into the dorsal striatum, entopeduncular nucleus, substantia nigra pars reticulata, globus pallidus, and supratrigeminal and trigeminal motor nuclei but not into the subthalamic and cuneiform nuclei; (b) by injections of CGS 21680 into the ventrolateral striatum; and (c) by injections of bicuculline into the rostral part of the parvicellular reticular nucleus.

Conclusions and implications

Memantine and THC supra-additively inhibit haloperidol-induced TJMs, suggesting that co-administration of these drugs might be a new approach to the treatment of tremor. Our results identified brain areas influencing parkinsonian-like tremor in rats and can help advance the development of novel treatments for repetitive involuntary movements.

SUBMITTER: Ionov ID

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7060361 | biostudies-literature |

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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