ELECTRIC-SHOCK CONVULSIONS IN THE RABBIT AND BRAIN CORTEX GABA-A RECEPTOR FUNCTION

The effect of electric shock convulsions (ESC) on the function of brai n cortex GABA(A) receptors has been studied in the rabbit. Three singl e electroconvulsive shocks (ECS) were given at intervals of 48 hours a nd the brain cortex was sampled 36 hours after the last shock. The dos e-response curve was determined for GABA-stimulated Cl-36- accumulatio n into brain cortex microsacs. The parameters of the curve (maximal ac cumulation rate, K(a) and Hill coefficient, n) were constant when dete rmined in two different series of experiences. Animals handled in the same way as the animals from the electric shock group but which did no t receive the ECSs (sham ECS group) showed similar maximal accumulatio n rate and K(a). However, the average n coefficient was significantly higher in the electric shock group. Naive animals, taken from their ca ges just before the sacrifice, showed dose-response curves which varie d from one experimental series to another. This last result (confirmin g previous observations) shows modifications and inconsistencies in th e evaluation of GABA(A) receptor function in stressed handling-naive a nimals.