Expression of genes encoding serotonin receptors and SERT in various brain structures of stressed rats after chronic exposure to ultrasound

Bull Exp Biol Med. 2014 Jan;156(3):317-9. doi: 10.1007/s10517-014-2338-y. Epub 2014 Jan 15.

Abstract

The expression of genes encoding serotonin receptors and serotonin transporter in emotiogenic structures of rat brain was shown to change after chronic stress with ultrasonic waves of varying frequencies. A QPCR-RT study revealed the increased expression of genes for SERT and 5-HT1B receptor and decreased expression of the 5-HT2A receptor in the prefrontal cortex of rats after chronic exposure to ultrasonic waves of varying frequencies. Gene expression was increased for SERT, but decreased for 5-HT1B, 5-HT2A, and 5-HT2B receptors in the midbrain of animals. The hippocampus was characterized by an increased expression of genes encoding SERT and 5-HT1A, 5-HT2A, and 5-HT2B receptors. Our results indicate that the exposure to this type of stress is followed by dysregulation in the serotoninergic system of the brain.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Base Sequence
  • Brain / metabolism*
  • DNA Primers
  • Male
  • Rats
  • Receptors, Serotonin / genetics*
  • Serotonin Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins / genetics*
  • Ultrasonics*

Substances

  • DNA Primers
  • Receptors, Serotonin
  • Serotonin Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins
  • Slc6a4 protein, rat