Effect of cannabinoid CB-1 receptor on expression of hypothalamic neuropeptide Y mRNA gene in male Wistar rats

摘要

It is unclear whether cannaboids are orexigenic or anorexigenic. Groups of 6 male Wistar rats each were injected 2-Arachidonyl glycerol (2-AG) as CB1 receptor agonist and rimonabant hydrochloride (SR) as receptor antagonist. Controls were fed ad libitum. Other groups were starved 12h or injected 0.5, 1 and 2mug/rat SR or 2-AG intra cerebro-ventricularly (ICV). Neuropeptide (NPY) mRNA expression was determined through quantitative real time PCR assay. Results show that ICV injection of 2-AG and food restriction, induced over expression of hypothalamic NPY gene compared with controls. Expression of hypothalamic NPY gene declined after injection with SR compared with controls. Results suggest that CB1 agonist receptor may induce hypothalamic NPY gene expression, whereas antagonist receptors, reduce it.