Neuropeptide Y Y2R blockade in the central amygdala reduces anxiety-like behavior but not alcohol drinking in alcohol-dependent rats

摘要

Electrophysiological data suggest a dual role of Y2 receptors (Y2Rs) as autoreceptors regulating neuropeptide Y release and heteroceptors regulating gamma-aminobutyric acid release in the central amygdala (CeA). Here, we report that neither systemic (JNJ-31020028) nor intra-CeA (BIIE0246) Y2R antagonism altered operant alcohol responding by alcohol-dependent or non-dependent rats. Conversely, BIIE0246 in the CeA reduced anxiety-like behavior in alcohol-dependent and alcohol-naïve rats. The finding that Y2R antagonism reduces anxiety-like behavior but not alcohol drinking suggests that these two effects may occur via different functions of the Y2R (e.g. autoreceptor versus heteroceptor function).