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Abstract

Astrocytes in primary culture express receptors for monoamine and peptide neurotransmitters. The cells also exhibit uptake sites for amino acid neurotransmitters. New data is presented, demonstrating interactions between the second messenger systems for vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and α- and β-adrenoceptors. Stimulation of these monoamine receptors modulates GABA and glutamate uptake into the cells, which indicates that astrocytes have the capacity to supervise and regulate synaptic transmission. Morphine affects astrocytes directly, probably by interaction with α₂ receptors, and indirectly by drug-induced ionic changes in the synaptic region, followed by changes in neurotransmission and protein synthesis.

Modulation of astroglial specific functions or metabolism might be one way to affect functional neuronal disturbances, including an approach toward understanding the underlying cellular mechanisms, e.g. tolerance.

Keywords

morphine astroglial primary culture GABA glutamate monoamine neuropeptide uptake carrier receptor cyclic AMP

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Does Morphine Affect Astrocytes?

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