CP55,940 attenuates spatial memory retrieval in mice

Background cannabinoids constitute a varied group of lipophilic substances able to infiltrate the blood-brain barrier and influence neuronal processes. clinical observations supported by experimental data have revealed that these compounds exert a deleterious effect on cognitive processes. the present study was carried out to determine the influence of a single systemic administration of cp55,940,a potent synthetic agonist of cannabinoid receptors,on spatial memory retrieval assessed in a morris water maze. methods c57bl/6j male mice were submitted to three consecutive days of training to find a hidden platform in the water maze. cp55,940 was given intraperitoneally once,at doses of 0.025,0.125 or 0.25 mg/kg on the fourth day,30 min before testing memory retrieval,and in separate groups before testing psychomotor activity and anxiety level in a hole-board test. results cp55,940 only at the highest dose of 0.25 mg/kg significantly altered all parameters used to assess spatial memory. it increased the latency in the first crossing of the former platform location (target area),decreased the number of target area crossings and shortened the time spent in the target quadrant. moreover,cp55,940 at doses of 0.25 and 0.125 mg/kg attenuated motor and exploratory activity in hole-board test. conclusion since the attenuated psychomotor activity after a dose of 0.125 mg/kg did not interfere with memory retrieval,we assume that the impairment of spatial memory observed after the highest dose of cp55,940 (0.25 mg/kg) was exerted by its influence on cognitive processes,however,the impact on locomotion could not be excluded. © 2014 institute of pharmacology,polish academy of sciences.