Activation of the 5-HT1A Receptor Subtype Increases Rat Plasma ACTH Concentration

Serotonergic (5-HT) neuronal pathways regulate the release of adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) from the pituitary gland probably through the action of hypothalamic corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH). 8-Hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT), a selective 5-HT1A receptor agonist, dose dependently (0.016-3 mg/kg s.c.) increased rat plasma ACTH concentration. This response was blocked stereoselectively by (-)-pindolol, known to have 5-HT1 antagonist properties, but not by (+)-pindolol, beta 1-, beta 2- or alpha 1-adrenoceptor, dopamine, muscarinic, 5-HT2 or 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. Similar increases of plasma ACTH were induced by other 5-HT1A receptor ligands (buspirone, ipsapirone and gepirone). These results suggest that activation of the 5-HT1A receptor induces the secretion of ACTH from the rat pituitary gland.