Cell Reaction of the Brain Mesocorticolimbic Dopaminergic System on Chronic Alcoholization in Rats

The morpho-functional changes of mesocorticolimbic structures of rat brain were studied in rats after chronic alcoholization within 5 months. Alcoholization decreased both the volume and density of neurons of the substantia nigra and the ventral tegmental area. The character of changes was like parabolic curve. The volume of neurons of the substantia nigra and the ventral tegmental area was decreased by 1.3-1.5-fold and the density of neurons did by 1.8-3-fold. The density of neuroglial cells of the substantia nigra and the ventral tegmental area was increased by 1.3-1.4-fold. The density of the nucleus accumbens and the anterior cingular cortex was decreased significantly (by 4.1-2.4-fold) though the volume of living neurons did not change that could be explained with enlarging of their receptor surface. One month after withdrawal of ethanol, the increased volume of neurons (by 1.3-1.5-fold) of the substantia nigra and the ventral tegmental area with 3-fold decreased density of neurons were observed that pointed to partial compensation of the functions of neuroglial cells. The density of neuroglial cells of the nucleus accumbens and the anterior cingular cortex was identical to that after chronic alcohol intoxication. Therefore, the significant decrease of both density and volume of neurons of mesocorticolimbic structures accompanied by the elevated density of neuroglial cells can be assessed as morphological signs of chronic alcohol intoxication persisting after its withdrawal.

dopamine, mesocorticolimbic system of the brain, ethanol, chronic alcohol intoxication, morphology, neuroglial cells