Author/Authors :
Mirzaii-Dizgah Iraj نويسنده Department of Physiology, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran , Bagheri Chimeh Pedram نويسنده Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran , Tavakoli Far Bahareh نويسنده Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, IR Iran
Abstract :
[Background]Space is a harsh environment that affects the body in many ways. Humans venturing into the environment of space can have negative effects on the body.[Objectives]This study focused on the effects of simulated microgravity on β-endorphin receptor concentration.[Methods]Rats (n = 16) were divided in two groups (n = 8/group), freely moving (control group) and hindlimb unloading. A rat-tail suspension model was used in experiment groups for 14 days to explore the effect of simulated microgravity on the β-endorphin receptor concentration in the hippocampus, brain stem, and prefrontal cortex.[Results]The results showed that the concentration of β-endorphin receptor in the brain stem and prefrontal cortex, but not in hippocampus, was significantly higher in hindlimb unloading rats than controls.[Conclusions]It is possible that simulated microgravity may increase the β-endorphin receptor expression in the prefrontal cortex and brain stem in the rat.
