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Activation of Brain Succinate Dehydrogenase by Lithium

Nature New Biology volume 236, pages 254–255 (1972)Cite this article

Abstract

IN spite of the widespread use of lithium salts as therapeutic and prophylactic agents against manic-depressive psychosis1, 2, little is known about the mechanism of lithium effects3, 4. Li+ stimulates noradrenergic neurones3, increases the uptake of this amine by isolated rat brain synaptosomes5, 6, increases serotonin uptake into platelets obtained from manic-depressive patients7 and increases the levels of serotonin and tryptophan in rat brain8. On the other hand, Lallier observed inhibitory action of LiCl on dehydrogenase activity in homogenates of Rana fusca9. We have investigated whether long term treatment with Li+ affects brain succinate dehydrogenase activity.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry and Experimental Therapeutics, Instituto Oswalde Cruz, Rio de Janeiro

    LUIZ A. ABREU & R. RAPOSO ABREU

Authors
  1. LUIZ A. ABREU
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  2. R. RAPOSO ABREU
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ABREU, L., ABREU, R. Activation of Brain Succinate Dehydrogenase by Lithium. Nature New Biology 236, 254–255 (1972). https://doi.org/10.1038/newbio236254a0

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