Facilitation of α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methylisoxazole‐4‐propionate receptor transmission in the suprachiasmatic nucleus by aniracetam enhances photic responses of the biological clock in rodents

Aniracetam increased the phase delay in behavioral rhythm induced by 3 lux light exposure in rodents in a dose-dependent manner (10-100 mg/kg).

• AMPA currents in the suprachiasmatic nucleus were enhanced by aniracetam, both with local application and optic chiasm stimulation.
• Aniracetam treatment also increased the intracellular calcium concentration in SCN slices when stimulated by AMPA.
• The potentiation of light-induced phase delay by aniracetam was not observed at higher light intensities (10 or 60 lux).
• The drug's effect was blocked when NMDA receptors were inhibited, indicating a specific pathway involvement.
• Aniracetam promoted the induction of c-Fos protein in the SCN in response to low intensity light exposure.

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