A microdialysis investigation of the release of norepinephrine in the hypothalamus induced by 2-deoxyglucose in awake rats.

The level of norepinephrine in the extracellular space of the lateral hypothalamus was measured by means of intracerebral microdialysis in awake rats. The introduction of desipramine (10 mumole) into the perfusing medium did not affect the basal level of norepinephrine, but increased the release of norepinephrine during local K(+)-stimulation. Neuroglycopenia created under the influence of 500 mg/kg of 2-deoxyglucose induced a threefold increase in the level of norepinephrine in the extracellular space of the hypothalamus, which achieved a maximal value in the first 40 min following the introduction of the substance, and thereafter gradually decreased to the basal level.