Activation of Extrasynaptic δ-GABAA Receptors Globally or Within the Posterior VTA Has Estrous-Dependent Effects on Alcohol Consumption and Estrous-Independent Effects on Locomotion
September 2017
in “
Hormones and behavior
”
TLDR δ-GABAA receptors affect alcohol consumption based on the estrous cycle and influence movement regardless of the cycle.
The study investigated the effects of activating extrasynaptic δ-GABAA receptors on alcohol consumption and locomotion in female mice, considering their estrous cycle. It was found that activation of these receptors had estrous-dependent effects on alcohol consumption, with THIP administration reducing alcohol intake in non-estrus females but not in estrus females. In contrast, the effects on locomotion were estrous-independent, with THIP generally increasing activity regardless of the estrous cycle. The research highlighted the complex interaction between neuroreceptor activation and behavioral outcomes, influenced by hormonal cycles, and suggested that δ-GABAA receptors in the VTA play a crucial role in binge drinking in females.
