CGP 42112A antagonism of the angiotensin II and angiotensin II(3-7) facilitation of recall in rats

An involvement of the angiotensin AT(2) receptors in some behavioural effects of angiotensin II (Ang II) and its 3-7 fragment [Ang II(3-7)] in rats was studied. To inhibit AT(2) receptors we used their selective antagonist CGP 42112A (nicotinic acid-Tyr-N-benzoxyl-carbonyl-Arg-Lys-His-Pro-Ile-OH). Ang II and Ang II(3-7), given intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.) at the dose of 1 nmol each, significantly enhanced recall of the passive avoidance behaviour and learning of the conditioned avoidance responses (CARs). CGP 42112A (2 mu g i.c.v.), inactive on its own in all tests, significantly attenuated facilitation of recall of passive avoidance caused by Ang II and Ang II(3-7). Also, CGP 42112A diminished Ang II improvement of CARs acquisition but not that caused by Ang II(3-7). None of the treatments produced significant anxiolysis in an elevated 'plus' maze. Likewise, in an open field no statistically significant differences were recorded except for the abolishment of the Ang II(3-7)-induced increase of rearings and bar approaches by CGP 42112A. It appears that the cognition improving activity of Ang II and Ang II(3-7) is mediated by similar mechanisms and angiotensin AT(2) receptors are engaged in these processes. (C) 1998 The Italian Pharmacological Society.