Regulation of noradrenergic coerulean neuronal firing mediated by 5-HT2 receptors: involvement of the prepositus hypoglossal nucleus.

Abstract Previous studies have indicated a 5-HT2-mediated inhibitory influence on unit activity in the locus coeruleus. In the present work, attempts were made to determine which area(s) of the brain is (are) involved in this effect: (1) Microiontophoretic application of serotoninergic compounds (quipazine, ketanserin, RU 24969 (Roussel Uclaf), 8-hydroxy-2(di-n-propylamino) tetralin (8-OH-DPAT), metergoline, serotonin) in the locus coeruleus, did not alter the coerulean discharge. Local microinjection of quipazine or ketanserin in the area of the locus coeruleus, as well as in one of its major afferents, the prepositus hypoglossi, had no effect on the unit activity in the locus coeruleus. 1…