Electrocortical power spectrum changes induced by microinfusion of corticotropin-releasing factor into the locus coeruleus in rats
De Sarro, G.B.; Fratta, W.; Giglio, A.; Nisticò, G.
Functional Neurology 7(5): 407-412
1992
ISSN/ISBN: 0393-5264 PMID: 1292962 Document Number: 401817
Rat corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) microinfused unilaterally or bilaterally into the locus coeruleus (LC) of awake, chronically cannulated rats produced a dose-dependent ECoG desynchronization and behavioral activation. ECoG spectra analysis revealed a significant decrease of total voltage power and of 0.25-3 and 3-6 Hz frequency bands. These effects were prevented by a pretreatment into the same site with alpha-hCRF, a selective antagonist at CRF receptors and by alprazolam, a benzodiazepine derivative. In conclusion, the present results indicate that CRF produces its behavioral and ECoG activating effects by interaction with specific receptors located on LC neurons.