Brazilian Journal of Biology ()

Influence of serotonergic transmission and postsynaptic 5-HT2C action on the feeding behavior of Coturnix japonica (Galliformes: Aves)

  • P. L. Cedraz-Mercez,
  • A. C. Almeida,
  • R. H. Costa-e-Sousa,
  • D. Badauê-Passos Jr.,
  • L. R. Castilhos,
  • E. L. Olivares,
  • A. Marinho Jr,
  • M. A. Medeiros,
  • L. C. Reis

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1590/S1519-69842005000400005
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 65, no. 4
pp. 589 – 595

Abstract

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We investigated the role of 5-HT2C receptors and serotonergic transmission in the feeding behavior control of quails. Administration of serotonin releaser, fenfluramine (FEN) and 5-HT2C agonists, mCPP and MK212, 1.0 and 3.3 mg/Kg induced significant inhibition of food intake in previously fasted fowls (0.71 ± 0.18 g and 0.47 ± 0.2 g; 0.49 ± 0.22 g and 0.48 ± 0.29 g; 0.82 ± 0.13 g and 0.71 ± 0.16 g, respectively). Control groups ranged from 2.89 ± 0.21 g to 2.97 ± 0.22 g, 60 min after reintroduction of food, P < 0.0001). Similar results were obtained with normally fed quails. Both serotonin releaser and 5-HT2C agonists, in a 3.3 mg/Kg dose, induced hypophagy (FEN, 0.78 ± 0.08 g; mCPP, 0.89 ± 0.07 g; MK212, 1.25 ± 0.17 g vs. controls, 2.05 ± 0.12 g, 120 min after food was presented, P < 0.0001 to P < 0.01). Previous administration of 5-HT2C antagonist, LY53857 (5.0 mg/Kg) blocked the hypophagic response induced by 5-HT2C agonists 60 min after food was reintroduced. Current data show a modulatory role of serotonin release and postsynaptic 5-HT2C receptors in the feeding behavior of quails.

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