Analgesic actions of dynorphin A(1-13) antiserum in the rat brain stem. |
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Authors: | S R Hamann W R Martin |
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Institution: | Department of Anesthesiology, University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, Lexington 40536-0216. |
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Abstract: | This study was performed to evaluate the effects of dynorphin A(1-3) antiserum when microinjected into an active hyperalgesic region within the rat brain stem. When administered within the dorsal posterior mesencephalic tegmentum (DPMT) of intact conscious rats, dynorphin A(1-13) antiserum produced rapid onset and persistent prolongation of a low intensity thermally evoked tail avoidance response (LITETAR). These analgesic actions of the dynorphin A(1-13) antiserum appeared to be dose dependent. These studies support previous hypotheses about the existence of tonically active brain stem opioid hyperalgesic process. Further, the results provide indirect evidence for a potential role of brain stem dynorphin(s) in facilitating pain. |
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