Effects of tianeptine on learning and memory in mice. Improvement of impairments induced by chronic alcoholism and brain aging

Jaffard, R.; Mocaër, E.; Lebrun, C.; Béracochéa, D.

Presse Medicale 20(37): 1812-1816

1991


ISSN/ISBN: 0755-4982
PMID: 1836613
Document Number: 373157
Tianeptine, a molecule with antidepressant properties, was found to affect certain learning and memory impairments induced by chronic alcoholism and aging in the mouse. Impairment in spontaneous alternation induced by chronic (12 months) alcohol intake and accelerated loss of spatial learning skills related to aging disappeared totally after administration of tianeptine (10 mg.kg-1). In certain situations (discrimination acquisitions), tianeptine was uneffective in older animals at this dosage, but had a facilitating effect in young animals. The effects of tianeptine on serotonin mediated transmission and the probable implication of hypofunctioning central cholinergic systems in the observed impairments are discussed. Tianeptine might reduce the inhibiting action of serotonin terminaisons on acetylcholine release and might thus permit normal cholinergic transmission.

Document emailed within 1 workday
Secure & encrypted payments