The benzodiazepine receptor in cultured astrocytes from genetically epilepsy-prone rats

Abstract

Peripheral-type benzodiazepine (BZD) receptors were studied in cultured astrocytes derived from genetically epilepsy-prone and control rats. Scatchard analysis of the binding of [3H]Ro 5-4864 to astrocyte homogenates from epilepsy-prone rats showed 38% fewer BZD receptors (Bmax) as compared to controls. No significant change in affinity (Kd) was observed. These findings suggest that the astrocyte peripheral-type BZD receptor may be involved in some forms of epilepsy.