Spatial learning is delayed and brain-derived neurotrophic factor mRNA expression inhibited by administration of MK-801 in rats

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is involved in activity-dependent plasticity and interacts with the neurotransmitter glutamate. Glutamate N-methl- d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor activation increases BDNF expression, while BDNF facilitates NMDA activity, with both involved in spatial learning. Administration of the NMDA receptor antagonist MK-801 can impair this leaning. The interaction between NMDA and BDNF in learning is examined in this study. Adult male Sprague–Dawley rats received either i.p. MK-801 or saline and were trained to locate a submerged water maze platform. Sedentary and activity yoked groups were included for biochemical comparisons. Control rats quickly learned the platform location while MK-801-treated rats learned at a significantly slower rate ( P