Brain Benzodiazepine Receptor Characteristics in Canine Narcolepsy

Neuronal degeneration in canine narcolepsy.

Narcolepsy is a lifelong illness characterized by persistent sleepiness, hypnagogic hallucinations, and episodes of motor paralysis called cataplexy. We have tested the hypothesis that a transient neurodegenerative process is linked to symptom onset. Using the amino-cupric silver stain on brain sections from canine narcoleptics, we found elevated levels of axonal degeneration in the amygdala, b...

Chronic cocaine modifies brain benzodiazepine receptor densities.

Dopamine D2 mechanisms in canine narcolepsy.

Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder characterized by abnormal manifestations of rapid-eye-movement (REM) sleep and excessive daytime sleepiness. Using a canine model of the disease, we found that central D2 antagonists suppressed cataplexy, a form of REM-sleep atonia occurring in narcolepsy, whereas this symptom was aggravated by D2 agonists. The effect on cataplexy was stereospecific for the S(-) e...

Neuropharmacology and neurochemistry of canine narcolepsy.

It is believed that narcolepsy involves abnormalities of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, especially of REM sleep atonia. Compelling evidence suggests that the regulation of REM sleep and REM sleep atonia involves a reciprocal interaction of cholinergic and monoaminergic systems. Using our canine model of narcolepsy and a pharmacological approach, we have previously demonstrated a similar intera...

The Benzodiazepine Receptor

The 1,4-benzodiazepines have become the most frequently prescribed of all psychotropic drugs since the introduction of the first member of this series, chlordiazepoxide, into clinical practice in 1960. The compounds are used as anxiolytics, sedative/hypnotics, anticonvulsants, and muscle relaxants. This unique spectrum of activity, together with their large therapeutic index and essential lack ...