Decreased central GABA B receptor binding sites in diabetic rats.

Little is known about the implication of central GABAergic neurons. However, there is evidence suggesting a growing importance of GABAergic function in the action of antidepressants. Since streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic rats have been shown to be resistant to the action of various antidepressants, we were interested in evaluating the density of GABAergic receptor binding sites in the cortex of STZ-diabetic rats on day 15 and day 30 of diabetes. A specific and marked decrease in GABA B receptor density was observed with no change in GABA A. Although no clear relationship could be demonstrated, it may be suggested that a central GABAergic dysfunction of diabetic rats may contribute to explain their resistance to antidepressants.