Participation of the dopaminergic brain system in effects of glucocorticoid hormones

Following the conditioning with dexamethasone, a dose-dependent place preference in non-preferred compartment was observed on the second test day in male Wistar rats. Amphetamine in subthreshold dose exerted no effect if administered alone and induced a place preference in an unbiased paradigm after pre-treatment with dexamethasone. Administration of D2-dopamine receptors' antagonist sulpiride 30 min prior to dexamethasone conditioning completely blocked the acquisition of the place preference. The D1-dopamine receptors' antagonist SCH23390 exerted no effect on the place conditioning. The findings suggest that the D2-dopamine receptors take part in conditioned place preference with dexamethasone.