Involvement of sigma(1) receptors in methamphetamine-induced behavioral sensitization in rats

MS-377 is a novel selective err ligand, currently being developed for the t reatment of schizophrenia. In the present study, we examined the effects of MS-377 on behavioral sensitization induced by subchronic treatment with me thamphetamine. MS-377 was administered at doses of 1.875-15 mg/kg (p.o.), t o rats, and methamphetamine was administered at doses of 2 mg/kg (i.p.), 60 min later once daily for 10 days. Repeated administration of methamphetami ne caused enhanced stereotypy, and behavioral sensitization was developed. MS-377 did not affect the acute effects of methamphetamine. However, co-adm inistration of MS-377 attenuated the development of methamphetamine-induced behavioral sensitization in a dose-dependent manner. These results suggest ed that al receptors play an important role in the developmental period of behavioral sensitization induced by methamphetamine in rats. (C) 2000 Elsev ier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.