Neuroprotective Effect of σ₁-Receptor Ligand 4-Phenyl-1-(4-Phenylbutyl) Piperidine (PPBP) Is Linked to Reduced Neuronal Nitric Oxide Production

Abstract

These data suggest that the mechanism of neuroprotection of PPBP in vivo is through attenuation of nNOS activity and ischemia-evoked NO production. Neuroprotective effects of PPBP are lost when nNOS is not present or is inhibited; therefore, PPBP likely acts upstream from NO generation and its subsequent neurotoxicity.