Cognitive enhancing effects in young and old rats of pBC264, a selective CCKB receptor agonist

Abstract

Rationale: The implication of CCK_B receptors in cognitive processes is far from fully understood. Objective: The present study investigated the effect of propionyl-BC₂₆₄, a selective agonist of CCK_B receptors, in young and old rats. Methods: Cognitive functions were studied in a two-trial recognition memory task developed in our laboratory. Results: It was shown that propionyl-BC₂₆₄ enhanced information processing in young as well as in old rats when injected (10 μg/kg; IP) immediately after the acquisition phase and before the retrieval trial but not before the acquisition trial. This cognitive enhancing effect was blocked by prior administration of L 365,260, a selective CCK_B receptor antagonist. Conclusions: In view of the fact that BC₂₆₄ is devoid of anxiogenic effects, it could be of value in the treatment of cognitive impairments associated with both normal and pathological ageing.