Effects of delta opioid antagonists on enkephalin-induced seizures

Pharmacology. 1987;34(2-3):61-5. doi: 10.1159/000138253.

Abstract

We examined the effect of opioid receptor antagonists on the seizure phenomena induced by specific delta opioid receptor agonist [D-Ser2,Leu5] enkephalyl-Thr (DSLET). The experiments have been performed in the anesthetized rats, and the DSLET-induced seizure phenomena were registered by electrocorticogram and electromyogram. It was demonstrated that two selective delta opioid receptor antagonists, ICI 152,129 and ICI 174,864 inhibited DSLET-induced epileptiform ECoG pattern and myoclonic contractions in a dose-related manner. An equimolar concentration of naloxone failed to antagonize the epileptiform effects of DSLET. It is concluded that delta opioid receptor agonist-induced seizure is mediated by delta receptors, since it can be blocked by delta opioid receptor antagonists. Evidently, delta opioid antagonists can be used as a good tool, in order to demonstrate a delta component in the seizure phenomena induced by other endogenous opioid peptides or their derivatives.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Enkephalin, Leucine* / analogs & derivatives*
  • Male
  • Narcotic Antagonists / pharmacology*
  • Oligopeptides / pharmacology*
  • Rats
  • Receptors, Opioid / drug effects*
  • Seizures / chemically induced*

Substances

  • Narcotic Antagonists
  • Oligopeptides
  • Receptors, Opioid
  • Enkephalin, Leucine
  • enkephalin, Ser(2), Leu(5), Thr(6)-