Brazilian Journal of Psychiatry (May 2014)

Evaluation of Na+, K+-ATPase activity in the brain of young rats after acute administration of fenproporex

  • Gislaine T. Rezin,
  • Giselli Scaini,
  • Cinara L. Gonçalves,
  • Gabriela K. Ferreira,
  • Mariane R. Cardoso,
  • Andréa G.K. Ferreira,
  • Maira J. Cunha,
  • Felipe Schmitz,
  • Roger B. Varela,
  • João Quevedo,
  • Angela T.S. Wyse,
  • Emilio L. Streck

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1590/1516-4446-2012-0956
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 36, no. 2
pp. 138 – 142

Abstract

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Objectives: Fenproporex is an amphetamine-based anorectic which is rapidly converted into amphetamine in vivo. Na+, K+-ATPase is a membrane-bound enzyme necessary to maintain neuronal excitability. Considering that the effects of fenproporex on brain metabolism are poorly known and that Na+, K+-ATPase is essential for normal brain function, this study sought to evaluate the effect of this drug on Na+, K+-ATPase activity in the hippocampus, hypothalamus, prefrontal cortex, and striatum of young rats. Methods: Young male Wistar rats received a single injection of fenproporex (6.25, 12.5, or 25 mg/kg intraperitoneally) or polysorbate 80 (control group). Two hours after the last injection, the rats were killed by decapitation and the brain was removed for evaluation of Na+, K+-ATPase activity. Results: Fenproporex decreased Na+, K+-ATPase activity in the striatum of young rats at doses of 6.25, 12.5, and 25 mg/kg and increased enzyme activity in the hypothalamus at the same doses. Na+, K+-ATPase activity was not affected in the hippocampus or prefrontal cortex. Conclusion: Fenproporex administration decreased Na+, K+-ATPase activity in the striatum even in low doses. However, in the hypothalamus, Na+, K+-ATPase activity was increased. Changes in this enzyme might be the result of the effects of fenproporex on neuronal excitability.

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