N-Phthaloyl gamma-aminobutyric acid (P-GABA) has been known to cross the bl
ood-brain barrier and ultimately to increase brain GABA level. In the prese
nt study, P-GABA was administered to Wistar rats for 21 days and circadian
rhythms of sodium, potassium, and calcium levels in serum were studied unde
r seminatural light-dark conditions. P-GABA administration caused desynchro
nization of the rhythms and advanced the peak times of serum electrolytes.
Exogenously administered P-GABA could alter the photic information received
by the clock. The results could be explained by slightly less or more than
l-h daily delays, which would bring the peak times to the points 21 days a
fter the start of administration. The changes in amount of electrolytes aft
er P-GABA administration are discussed. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Inc.