Modulating Role of Mirtazapine on Concentrations of both Glutamate and GABA in Nucleus Accumbens of Chronic Mild Stressed Albino Rats

Abstract

Aim: Mirtazapine is a noradrenergic and specific serotonergic antidepressant (NaSSA). It enhances both noradrenergic and 5HT1 serotonergic transmission. The present study investigated the changes in forced swimming test and the alteration of GABA contents by this antidepressant drug in nucleus accumbens, as a part of the limbic system, from albino rats exposed to chronic mild stress (CMS)-induced anhedonia. Methods: Albino rats were divided into 3 groups; group (1) received vehicle without exposure to CMS, group (2) received vehicle with exposure to CMS, group (3) received mirtazapine 16 mg/kg/day intraperitoneal (ip) dissolved in DMSO for 3 weeks during exposure to CMS. Results: Reversal of CMS-induced anhedonia after 3 weeks ip administration of 16 mg/kg/day mirtazapine was observed. It modifies the behavioral changes recorded by the forced swimming test (FST) as well as the content of GABA neurotransmitter in their isolated nucleus accumbens. Conclusion: The present study proposes the presence of a possible GABAergic role of mirtazapine in nucleus accumbens in the treatment of depressive disorders.