Physiology & behavior
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We have previously shown that the 5-HT2A/C agonist, DOI, potently and in a dose-dependent manner produces the head-twitch response in the least shrew (Cryptotis parva) via the activation of serotonergic 5-HT2A receptors. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether activation of 5-HT1A receptors by its selective agonist, 8-OH DPAT, can induce the serotonin syndrome (SS) in this species. In the rat, the symptoms of SS include: forepaw splaying, hindleg abduction, forepaw treading, flat body posture, tremor, and straub tail. ⋯ As was expected, the selective 5-HT2A/C antagonist, SR 46349B, did not affect the intensity 8-OH DPAT-induced symptoms. Overall, these data suggest that the SS produced by 8-OH DPAT in the least shrew is mediated via the activation of serotonergic 5-HT1A receptors. In addition, propranolol is not a useful 5-HT1A antagonist in this species.