Influence of aging on catecholamine levels, accumulation, and release in F-344 rats.

Neuronal function in selected brain areas has been evaluated in Fischer 344 rats aged 2-4 months, 11-14 months and 21-26 months. In vitro release of 3H-norepinephrine from hypothalamus and occipital cortex and 3H-dopamine from striatum has been evaluated using potassium, amphetamine, and field-stimulation. In vitro uptake of 3H-catecholamines has been evaluated in the same tissues. Catecholamine levels were measured in six brain areas: hypothalamus, striatum, cortex, cerebellum, brainstem and midbrain. Significant age-related decreases of NE levels, uptake, and release to high frequency stimulation were seen in the hypothalamus. The decreases in 3H-NE uptake and NE levels in the hypothalamus were apparent at 12 months, whereas the decrease in 3H-NE release after high frequency stimulation was seen in the senile rats.