Inhibitory effects of paeonol on morphine-induced locomotor sensitization and conditioned place preference in mice

Abstract

The inhibitory effects of paeonol, a major compound of Paeoniae radix, on the development of locomotor sensitization, conditioned place preference (CPP) and dopamine receptor supersensitivity induced by the repeated administration of morphine were investigated through behavioral experiments. A single administration of morphine produces hyperlocomotion. Repeated administration of morphine develops sensitization (reverse tolerance), a progressive enhancement of locomotion, which is used as a model for studying the drug-induced drug-seeking behaviors, and CPP, which is used as a model for studying drug reinforcement. Paeonol inhibited morphine-induced hyperlocomotion, sensitization and CPP. In addition, paeonol inhibited the development of postsynaptic dopamine receptors supersensitivity, which may be an underlying common mechanism that mediates the morphine-induced dopaminergic behaviors such as sensitization and CPP. Apomorphine (a dopamine agonist)-induced climbing behaviors also were inhibited by a single direct administration of paeonol. These results provide evidence that paeonol exerts anti-dopaminergic activity, and it is suggested that paeonol may be useful for the prevention and therapy of these adverse actions of morphine.

(–)-Epigallocatechin-3-O-Gallate Augments Pentobarbital-Induced Sleeping Behaviors Through Cl− Channel Activation

“…30 In addition, EGCG inhibits hyperlocomtion induced by methamphetamine, cocaine, and caffeine. Dopaminergic and noradrenergic neurons in the CNS mediate the behavioral effects of psychostimulants.…”

Paeonol, the main active principles of Paeonia moutan, ameliorates alcoholic steatohepatitis in mice

“…Paeonol is used as a food additive and in traditional oriental medicines in treating various diseases and inflammatory diseases including hepatitis (Wu, 1966;Zhang et al, 1996). Paeonol was later identified to have various pharmacological and physiological effects such as anti-inflammation, anti-bacteria, immuno-regulation, and anti-tumor effects (Wu, 1966;Eun et al, 2006;Ishiguro et al, 2006;Bu et al, 2008;Chunhu et al, 2008;Lee et al, 2008;Sun et al, 2008;Tsai et al, 2008;Zhong et al, 2009;Li et al, 2009). The most interestingly pharmacologic property of paeonol is anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerosis effects, suggesting that paeonol maybe have a protective effect on ALD (Chou, 2003;Ishiguro et al, 2006;Li et al, 2009).…”

Sedative effects of IranianArtemisia annuain mice: Possible benzodiazepine receptors involvement

“…A noticeable number of herbal components whose behavioral and pharmacological effects have been well-characterized may be good candidates for more investigations that may ultimately lead to clinical use. There are an increasing number of herbal products, which have been introduced into psychiatric practice in the past decade (Eun et al, 2006;Ma et al, 2009).…”