The mGlu(2/3) receptor agonist LY379268 selectively blocks amphetamine ambulations and rearing.

We have previously reported that the specific group II metabotropic glutamate receptor agonist LY379268 inhibited phencyclidine (PCP)-induced motor activations in rats, but had mixed effects on behaviors produced by amphetamine. Here, LY379268 (1 mg/kg subcutaneous (s.c.)) attenuated amphetamine-induced ambulations and rearing but did not alter amphetamine-evoked fine motor movements. Consistent with a mechanism involving mGlu(2/3) receptors, the inhibitory actions of LY379268 on ambulations and rearing were reversed by LY341495, a mGlu(2/3) receptor antagonist. These data further suggest antipsychotic actions of mGlu(2/3) receptor agonists with a low propensity for extra-pyramidal side effects.