CB1 cannabinoid receptor activation dose dependently modulates neuronal activity within caudal but not rostral song control regions of adult zebra finch telencephalon

Rationale CB1 cannabinoid receptors are distinctly expressed at high density within several regions of zebra finch telencephalon, including those known to be involved in song learning (lMAN and Area X) and production (HVC and RA) because (1) exposure to cannabinoid agonists during developmental periods of auditory and sensory-motor song learning alters song patterns produced later in adulthood and (2) densities of song region expression of CB1 waxes and wanes during song learning. It is becoming clear that CB1-receptor-mediated signaling is important to normal processes of vocal development. Materials and methods To better understand the mechanisms involved in cannabinoid modulation of vocal behavior, we have investigated the dose-response relationship between systemic cannabinoid exposure and changes in neuronal activity (as indicated by expression of the transcription factor, c-Fos) within telencephalic brain regions, with established involvement in song learning and/or control. Results In adults, we have found that low doses (0.1 mg/kg) of the cannabinoid agonist WIN-55212-2 decrease neuronal activity (as indicated by densities of c-fos-expressing nuclei) within vocal motor regions of caudal telencephalon (HVC and RA) while higher doses (3 mg/kg) stimulate activity. Both effects were reversed by pretreatment with the CB1-selective antagonist rimonabant. Interestingly, no effects of cannabinoid treatment were observed within the rostral song regions lMAN and Area X, despite distinct and dense CB1 receptor expression within these areas. Conclusions Overall, our results demonstrate that, depending on dosage, CB1 agonism can both inhibit and stimulate neuronal activity within brain regions controlling adult vocal motor output, implicating involvement of multiple CB1-sensitive neuronal circuits.