Effects of 6-hydroxydopamine-induced lesions of A10 dopaminergic neurons and neuroleptic or bromocriptine treatment on ethanol withdrawal syndrome in rats.

In this study we have investigated the possible role played by dopaminergic mesocorticolimbic neurons in ethanol withdrawal syndrome in rats. 6-hydroxydopamine-induced bilateral lesions of A10 nucleus resulted in selective fall in forebrain dopamine content accompanied by enhanced motor activity and audiogenic seizure intensity when measured during withdrawal period. Opposite changes, hypolocomotion and lower seizures intensity, were observed after metoclopramide injection. Pimozide also diminished seizure intensity but at higher dose (0.4 mg/kg) produced an increase in locomotor activity. Bromocriptine, an agonist of dopaminergic receptors, depressed both locomotor activity and audiogenic seizure intensity. It is concluded that mesolimbic dopaminergic neurons may be involved in the mechanism of ethanol withdrawal syndrome.