Brain monoamine metabolism is altered in rats following spontaneous, long‐distance running

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Abstract
Brain monoamine metabolism in rats was studied during spontaneous, long‐term running in a microprocessor‐controlled wheel cage. Immediately after heavy spontaneous exercise, DOPA accumulation was decreased in dopamine‐rich brain regions such as the limbic forebrain and corpus striatum, indicating a decreased rate of synthesis of dopamine in brain. In contrast, DOPA accumulation was increased in the noradrenaline‐predominated region of the brain stem, indicating an increased synthesis of noradrenaline in this region. Alterations in brain monoamine metabolism were normalized in exercising animals analysed 24 h after the last running period. Changes in brain monoamine metabolism may be involved in the mechanisms underlying the clinically observed psychological effects of physical exercise.