IMPACT OF PREGNANCY AND LACTATION ON GABA(A) RECEPTOR AND CENTRAL-TYPE AND PERIPHERAL-TYPE BENZODIAZEPINE RECEPTORS

The effect of pregnancy and lactation on GABA(A) receptor and central- and peripheral-type benzodiazepine receptors (CBR and PBR, respective ly) was studied in female Sprague-Dawley rats. Pregnancy was associate d with increased CBR density (on day 19) in the hippocampus and with d ecreased [H-3]Ro 15-1788-specific binding in the hypothalamuus during pregnancy and lactation. A similar decrease in [H-3]PK 11195-specific binding was observed in the hypothalamus and pituitary. An increase in PBR density in the ovary and uterus was observed during pregnancy, wh ile adrenal PBR density was down-regulated during pregnancy and lactat ion. It seems that the hormonal changes occurring during pregnancy and lactation play a role in the regulation of CBR and PBR in discrete ti ssues. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.