Autoradiographic localization of [3H]buspirone binding sites in rat brain.

Binding sites for [3H]buspirone were identified on sections from rat brain by light microscopic autoradiography. Incubated sections were processed by the Ultrofilm as well as the coverslip method. Highest densities of [3H]buspirone binding were localized in the caudate/putamen, nucleus accumbens septi, olfactory tubercle and in the glomerula of the olfactory bulb. This distribution pattern is different from any serotonin receptor but fits well with that of dopamine receptors. Therefore, this study supports the hypothesis that buspirone acts, at least partially, on dopamine receptors.