The cannabinoid CB1 (CB1R) and dopaminergic D2 (D2R) receptors modify GABAergic transmission in the globus pallidus. Although dopaminergic denervation produces changes in the expression and supersensitization of these receptors, the consequences of these changes on GABAergic neurotransmission are unknown. The aim of this study was to show the effects of CB1R and D2R activation and coactivation on the uptake and release of [3 H]GABA in the globus pallidus of hemiparkinsonian rats as well as their effects on motor behavior. The activation of CB1R blocked GABA uptake and decreased GABA release in the globus pallidus in the dopamine denervated side, whereas the co-activation of CB1R-D2R increased GABA release and had no effect on GABA uptake. A microinjection of the CB1R agonist ACEA into the globus pallidus ipsilaterally to a 6-OHDA lesion potentiated turning behavior that was induced by methamphetamine. However, a microinjection of the D2R agonist quinpirole did not modify this behavior, and a microinjection of a mixture of CB1R and D2R agonists significantly potentiated turning behavior. The behavioral effects produced after the activation of the CB1R and the co-activation of CB1R and D2R can be explained by increased GABAergic neurotransmission produced by a block of GABA uptake and an increase in the release of GABA in the globus pallidus, respectively. Using neurochemical and behavioral probes, the authors demonstrate that both the activation of CB1 receptors alone and in coactivation with D2 receptors of the globus pallidus cause a decrease in GABA uptake and an increase in GABA release respectively. These events are reflected in the increase of motor asymmetry in hemiparkinsonian rats. These results propose that the antagonism of CB1 receptors could have a positive effect on the motor deficits found in Parkinson’s Disease. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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