The involvement of nitric oxide (NO) in the CGRP-induced behavior of rats

Abstract

The possible role of nitric oxide (NO) in CGRP-induced passive avoidance, active avoidance, and open field behavior was tested in rats. A specific NO synthase inhibitor, N omega-nitro-L-arginine (L-NA), was used to disrupt NO synthesis. ICV administration of 5 micrograms of L-NA reversed the action of CGRP in passive and active avoidance tests. In an open field, L-NA prevented the action of CGRP on locomotion and grooming. The inactive isomer D-NA had no effect on behavior of animals. The data suggest that NO might contribute to CGRP-induced behavior in rats.