Autoradiographic localization of D1-like dopamine receptors in the forebrain of male and female Japanese quail and their relationship with immunoreactive tyrosine hydroxylase

D2 receptor antagonism enhances cocaine-induced behavioral sensitization in female, but not male Japanese quail ( Coturnix japonica )

Sex differences in cocaine-induced behaviors are well established. In rodents, females show enhanced locomotion to cocaine over multiple trials compared with males, a behavioral response known as sensitization. Estradiol enhances cocaine-induced sensitization in female rats by agonizing dopaminergic activity within the brain. In female quail, cocaine does not increase locomotion regardless of increased estradiol. A higher D2:D1 dopamine receptor ratio in quail compared with rodents may explain this sex and species difference. The goal of the present work was to investigate the role of D2 receptors in cocaine-induced locomotion and sensitization in Japanese quail and to determine whether a greater D2 receptor availability contributed to the lack of cocaine-induced sensitization in female quail found in previous studies. Male and female quail were administered 0, 0.03, 0.05, or 0.07 mg/kg of eticlopride (Eti) followed by 10 mg/kg of cocaine or saline then immediately placed in open-field chambers. Distance traveled was recorded for 30 min daily for 7 days. In female quail, cocaine-induced sensitization was observed with 0.03 or 0.05 mg/kg Eti, but not in cocaine-only females. In male quail, cocaine-induced sensitization was observed similar to previous research. However, Eti did not enhance cocaine-induced locomotion or produce sensitization in male quail. The D2 receptor likely mediates cocaine's motor stimulating effects in quail. In females, this effect is more pronounced. Since high D2 availability is protective against stimulant abuse, Japanese quail may be a useful model for investigating the role of the D2 receptor in cocaine addiction, but further research is needed.

Differential control of appetitive and consummatory sexual behavior by neuroestrogens in male quail

Contribution to Special Issue on Fast effects of steroids. Estrogens exert pleiotropic effects on multiple physiological and behavioral traits including sexual behavior. These effects are classically mediated via binding to nuclear receptors and subsequent regulation of target gene transcription. Estrogens also affect neuronal activity and cell-signaling pathways via faster, membrane-initiated events. Although the distinction between appetitive and consummatory aspects of sexual behavior has been criticized, this distinction remains valuable in that it facilitates the causal analysis of certain behavioral systems. Effects of neuroestrogens produced by neuronal aromatization of testosterone on copulatory performance (consummatory aspect) and on sexual motivation (appetitive aspect) are described in male quail. The central administration of estradiol rapidly increases expression of sexual motivation, as assessed by two measures of sexual motivation produced in response to the visual presentation of a female but not sexual performance in male Japanese quail. This effect is mimicked by membrane-impermeable analogs of estradiol, indicating that it is initiated at the cell membrane. Conversely, blocking the action of estrogens or their synthesis by a single intracerebroventricular injection of estrogen receptor antagonists or aromatase inhibitors, respectively, decreases sexual motivation within minutes without affecting performance. The same steroid has thus evolved complementary mechanisms to regulate different behavioral components (motivation vs. performance) in distinct temporal domains (long- vs. short-term) so that diverse reproductive activities can be properly coordinated. Changes in preoptic aromatase activity and estradiol as well as glutamate concentrations are observed during or immediately after copulation. The interaction between these neuroendocrine/neurochemical changes and their functional significance is discussed.

Multiple amygdaloid divisions of arcopallium send convergent projections to the nucleus accumbens and neighboring subpallial amygdala regions in the domestic chicken: a selective pathway tracing and reconstruction study

Retrograde tracing with choleratoxin B, injected into the nucleus accumbens (Ac) and bed nucleus of stria terminalis, lateral part (BSTL), yielded labeled perikarya in a ring-shaped area of arcopallium, including dorsal and hilar subdivisions, with a wedge-shaped node of dense accumulation in the amygdalopiriform area (APir). Also, the position of source neurons for this arcopallio-subpallial pathway was verified by anterograde tracing. Three subregions of arcopallium (amygdalopiriform, dorsal, hilar) were injected with dextran (10 kDa), and fibers and terminal fields were detected in Ac, BSTL and extended amygdala (EA). Most abundant projections to Ac arose from APir. The study enabled precise description of the main output fiber streams: the dorsal stream follows the dorsal border of arcopallium and, continuing in the ventral amygdalofugal tract, it traverses the EA and the BSTL before reaching the Ac. The ventral stream of fibers enters the EA along the ventral subpallial border and terminates in the basal nucleus and ventral pallidum. The course of the pathway was reconstructed in 3D. Retrogradely labeled arcopallial neurons were devoid of DARPP-32. DARPP-32 was present in the Ac but not the BSTL. No colocalization between the calcium binding proteins calbindin, parvalbumin and calretinin, and retrogradely labeled neurons was detected, despite a considerable territorial overlap. This finding further supports the excitatory nature of the arcopallial-accumbens pathway. Conjoint and convergent amygdalar input to EA, including BSTL, as well as to Ac subregions likely transmits fear and aggression related signals to both viscerolimbic (EA) and learned reward- and motivation-related (Ac) ventrobasal forebrain regions.

7α-Hydroxypregnenolone, a key neuronal modulator of locomotion, stimulates upstream migration by means of the dopaminergic system in salmon

Salmon migrate upstream against an opposing current in their natal river. However, the molecular mechanisms that stimulate upstream migratory behavior are poorly understood. Here, we show that 7α-hydroxypregnenolone (7α-OH PREG), a newly identified neuronal modulator of locomotion, acts as a key factor for upstream migration in salmon. We first identified 7α-OH PREG and cytochrome P450 7α-hydroxylase (P450_7α), a steroidogenic enzyme producing 7α-OH PREG, in the salmon brain and then found that 7α-OH PREG synthesis in the brain increases during upstream migration. Subsequently, we demonstrated that 7α-OH PREG increases upstream migratory behavior of salmon. We further found that 7α-OH PREG acts on dopamine neurons in the magnocellular preoptic nucleus during upstream migration. Thus, 7α-OH PREG stimulates upstream migratory behavior through the dopaminergic system in salmon. These findings provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of fish upstream migration.

Distribution of neurotransmitter receptors and zinc in the pigeon (Columba livia) hippocampal formation: A basis for further comparison with the mammalian hippocampus

The avian hippocampal formation (HF) and mammalian hippocampus share a similar functional role in spatial cognition, but the underlying neuronal mechanisms allowing the functional similarity are incompletely understood. To understand better the organization of the avian HF and its transmitter receptors, we analyzed binding site densities for glutamatergic AMPA, NMDA, and kainate receptors; GABAA receptors; muscarinic M1 , M2 and nicotinic (nACh) acetylcholine receptors; noradrenergic α1 and α2 receptors; serotonergic 5-HT1A receptors; dopaminergic D1/5 receptors by using quantitative in vitro receptor autoradiography. Additionally, we performed a modified Timm staining procedure to label zinc. The regionally different receptor densities mapped well onto seven HF subdivisions previously described. Several differences in receptor expression highlighted distinct HF subdivisions. Notable examples include 1) high GABAA and α1 receptor expression, which rendered distinctive ventral subdivisions; 2) high α2 receptor expression, which rendered distinctive a dorsomedial subdivision; 3) distinct kainate, α2 , and muscarinic receptor densities that rendered distinctive the two dorsolateral subdivisions; and 4) a dorsomedial region characterized by high kainate receptor density. We further observed similarities in receptor binding densities between subdivisions of the avian and mammalian HF. Despite the similarities, we propose that 300 hundred million years of independent evolution has led to a mosaic of similarities and differences in the organization of the avian HF and mammalian hippocampus and that thinking about the avian HF in terms of the strict organization of the mammalian hippocampus is likely insufficient to understand the HF of birds.

Cocaine-induced sensitization correlates with testosterone in male Japanese quail but not with estradiol in female Japanese quail

Research has indicated that gonadal hormones may mediate behavioral and biological responses to cocaine. Estrogen, in particular, has been shown to increase behavioral responding to cocaine in female rats relative to male rats. The current study investigated the effect of cocaine on locomotor activity and hormonal correlates in male and female Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica). In Japanese quail, circulating hormone levels can be manipulated without surgical alterations via modifying the photoperiod. Male and female quail were housed on either 8L:16D (light:dark) or 16L:8D (light:dark) cycle for 21days. Blood samples were taken prior to the beginning of the experiment and assays were performed to determine the levels of testosterone (T) and estradiol (E2). Quail were given injections of saline or cocaine (10 or 20mg/kg) once a day for 10days. Immediately after each injection, birds were placed in open field arenas and distance traveled was measured for 30min. Results showed that male quail housed under long-light conditions exhibited cocaine-induced sensitization to 10mg/kg cocaine which was correlated with the high levels of plasma T. Female quail housed under short-light conditions demonstrated sensitization to 10mg/kg cocaine, but this was not correlated with the levels of plasma E2. The current findings suggest that cocaine-induced locomotor activity was associated with T in males but not with E2 in females.

Breakthrough in neuroendocrinology by discovering novel neuropeptides and neurosteroids: 2. Discovery of neurosteroids and pineal neurosteroids

Bargmann-Scharrer's discovery of "neurosecretion" in the first half of the 20th century has since matured into the scientific discipline of neuroendocrinology. Identification of novel neurohormones, such as neuropeptides and neurosteroids, is essential for the progress of neuroendocrinology. Our studies over the past two decades have significantly broadened the horizons of this field of research by identifying novel neuropeptides and neurosteroids in vertebrates that have opened new lines of scientific investigation in neuroendocrinology. We have established de novo synthesis and functions of neurosteroids in the brain of various vertebrates. Recently, we discovered 7α-hydroxypregnenolone (7α-OH PREG), a novel bioactive neurosteroid that acts as a key regulator for inducing locomotor behavior by means of the dopaminergic system. We further discovered that the pineal gland, an endocrine organ located close to the brain, is an important site of production of neurosteroids de novo from cholesterol (CHOL). The pineal gland secretes 7α-OH PREG and 3α,5α-tetrahydroprogesterone (3α,5α-THP; allopregnanolone) that are involved in locomotor rhythms and neuronal survival, respectively. Subsequently, we have demonstrated their mode of action and functional significance. This review summarizes the discovery of these novel neurosteroids and its contribution to the progress of neuroendocrinology.

Brain and pineal 7α-hydroxypregnenolone stimulating locomotor activity: identification, mode of action and regulation of biosynthesis

Biologically active steroids synthesized in the central and peripheral nervous systems are termed neurosteroids. However, the biosynthetic pathways leading to the formation of neurosteroids are still incompletely elucidated. 7α-Hydroxypregnenolone, a novel bioactive neurosteroid stimulating locomotor activity, has been recently identified in the brain of newts and quail. Subsequently, the mode of action and regulation of biosynthesis of 7α-hydroxypregnenolone have been determined. Moreover, recent studies on birds have demonstrated that the pineal gland, an endocrine organ located close to the brain, is an important site of production of neurosteroids de novo from cholesterol. 7α-Hydroxypregnenolone is a major pineal neurosteroid that stimulates locomotor activity in juvenile chickens, connecting light-induced gene expression with locomotion. This review summarizes the advances in our understanding of the identification, mode of action and regulation of biosynthesis of brain and pineal 7α-hydroxypregnenolone, a potent stimulator of locomotor activity.

New biosynthesis and biological actions of avian neurosteroids

De novo neurosteroidogenesis from cholesterol occurs in the brain of various avian species. However, the biosynthetic pathways leading to the formation of neurosteroids are still not completely elucidated. We have recently found that the avian brain produces 7α-hydroxypregnenolone, a novel bioactive neurosteroid that stimulates locomotor activity. Until recently, it was believed that neurosteroids are produced in neurons and glial cells in the central and peripheral nervous systems. However, our recent studies on birds have demonstrated that the pineal gland, an endocrine organ located close to the brain, is an important site of production of neurosteroids de novo from cholesterol. 7α-Hydroxypregnenolone is a major pineal neurosteroid that stimulates locomotor activity of juvenile birds, connecting light-induced gene expression with locomotion. The other major pineal neurosteroid allopregnanolone is involved in Purkinje cell survival during development. This paper highlights new aspects of neurosteroid synthesis and actions in birds.

The avian subpallium: new insights into structural and functional subdivisions occupying the lateral subpallial wall and their embryological origins

The subpallial region of the avian telencephalon contains neural systems whose functions are critical to the survival of individual vertebrates and their species. The subpallial neural structures can be grouped into five major functional systems, namely the dorsal somatomotor basal ganglia; ventral viscerolimbic basal ganglia; subpallial extended amygdala including the central and medial extended amygdala and bed nuclei of the stria terminalis; basal telencephalic cholinergic and non-cholinergic corticopetal systems; and septum. The paper provides an overview of the major developmental, neuroanatomical and functional characteristics of the first four of these neural systems, all of which belong to the lateral telencephalic wall. The review particularly focuses on new findings that have emerged since the identity, extent and terminology for the regions were considered by the Avian Brain Nomenclature Forum. New terminology is introduced as appropriate based on the new findings. The paper also addresses regional similarities and differences between birds and mammals, and notes areas where gaps in knowledge occur for birds.

Social affiliation relates to tyrosine hydroxylase immunolabeling in male and female zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata)

The catecholamines dopamine and norepinephrine are implicated in affiliative behaviors, yet few studies have addressed the extent to which affiliative behaviors within distinct social settings rely upon similar or distinct catecholaminergic mechanisms. To explore the role of catecholamines in affiliative behavior within distinct long-term social contexts, we examined the density of the catecholamine synthetic enzyme tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) in brain regions within both the mesolimbic dopaminergic system and "social behavior network" in male and female zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata) paired for 21 days with either a same- or opposite-sex conspecific. On days 16-21 after pairing, members of both same- and mixed-sex pairs produced similar rates of affiliative behaviors. Measures of affiliation related to TH labeling in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), nucleus accumbens (Ac), medial preoptic nucleus (POM), and ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus (VMH). Relationships between TH labeling density and specific measures of affiliative behavior differed in rostral compared to caudal subregions of Ac and VTA, suggesting distinct roles for these subregions in the regulation of affiliative behavior. Finally, TH labeling density in the VMH and rostral VTA were positively related to the amount of courtship received from the partner and TH labeling in Ac was denser in opposite-sex pairs compared to same-sex pairs, indicative of socially induced brain plasticity. Overall, results highlight a complex region- and behavior-specific role for catecholamines in vertebrate affiliation.

Mode of action and functional significance of 7α-hydroxypregnenolone stimulating locomotor activity

Previous studies over the past two decades have demonstrated that the brain and other nervous systems possess key steroidogenic enzymes and produces pregnenolone and other various neurosteroids in vertebrates in general. Recently, 7α-hydroxypregnenolone, a novel bioactive neurosteroid, was identified in the brain of newts and quail. Importantly, this novel neurosteroid is produced from pregnenolone through the enzymatic activity of cytochrome P450(7α) and acts on brain tissue as a neuronal modulator to stimulate locomotor activity in these vertebrates. Subsequently, the mode of action of 7α-hydroxypregnenolone was demonstrated. 7α-Hydroxypregnenolone stimulates locomotor activity through activation of the dopaminergic system. To understand the functional significance of 7α-hydroxypregnenolone in the regulation of locomotor activity, diurnal, and seasonal changes in 7α-hydroxypregnenolone synthesis were further characterized. Melatonin derived from the pineal gland and eyes regulates 7α-hydroxypregnenolone synthesis in the brain, thus inducing diurnal locomotor changes. Prolactin, an adenohypophyseal hormone, regulates 7α-hydroxypregnenolone synthesis in the brain, and also induces seasonal locomotor changes. In addition, 7α-hydroxypregnenolone mediates corticosterone action to modulate locomotor activity under stress. This review summarizes the current knowledge regarding the mode of action and functional significance of 7α-hydroxypregnenolone, a newly identified bioactive neurosteroid stimulating locomotor activity.

Neurosteroid biosynthesis and function in the brain of domestic birds

It is now established that the brain and other nervous systems have the capability of forming steroids de novo, the so-called "neurosteroids." The pioneering discovery of Baulieu and his colleagues, using rodents, has opened the door to a new research field of "neurosteroids." In contrast to mammalian vertebrates, little has been known regarding de novo neurosteroidogenesis in the brain of birds. We therefore investigated neurosteroid formation and metabolism in the brain of quail, a domestic bird. Our studies over the past two decades demonstrated that the quail brain possesses cytochrome P450 side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc), 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/Δ(5)-Δ(4)-isomerase (3β-HSD), 5β-reductase, cytochrome P450 17α-hydroxylase/c17,20-lyase (P450(17α,lyase)), 17β-HSD, etc., and produces pregnenolone, progesterone, 5β-dihydroprogesterone (5β-DHP), 3β, 5β-tetrahydroprogesterone (3β, 5β-THP), androstenedione, testosterone, and estradiol from cholesterol. Independently, Schlinger's laboratory demonstrated that the brain of zebra finch, a songbird, also produces various neurosteroids. Thus, the formation and metabolism of neurosteroids from cholesterol is now known to occur in the brain of birds. In addition, we recently found that the quail brain expresses cytochrome P450(7α) and produces 7α- and 7β-hydroxypregnenolone, previously undescribed avian neurosteroids, from pregnenolone. This paper summarizes the advances made in our understanding of neurosteroid formation and metabolism in the brain of domestic birds. This paper also describes what are currently known about physiological changes in neurosteroid formation and biological functions of neurosteroids in the brain of domestic and other birds.

Differential effects of central injections of D1 and D2 receptor agonists and antagonists on male sexual behavior in Japanese quail

A key brain site in the control of male sexual behavior is the medial pre-optic area (mPOA) where dopamine stimulates both D1 and D2 receptor subtypes. Research completed to date in Japanese quail has only utilized systemic injections and therefore much is unknown about the specific role played by dopamine in the brain and mPOA in particular. The present study investigated the role of D1 and D2 receptors on male sexual behavior by examining how intracerebroventricular injections and microinjections into the mPOA of D1 and D2 agonists and antagonists influenced appetitive and consummatory aspects of sexual behavior in male quail. Experiments 1 and 2 investigated the effects of intracerebroventricular injections at three doses of D1 or D2 agonists and antagonists. The results indicated that D1 receptors facilitated consummatory male sexual behavior, whereas D2 receptors inhibited both appetitive and consummatory behaviors. Experiment 3 examined the effects of the same compounds specifically injected in the mPOA and showed that, in this region, both receptors stimulated male sexual behaviors. Together, these data indicated that the stimulatory action of dopamine in the mPOA may require a combined activation of D1 and D2 receptors. Finally, the regulation of male sexual behavior by centrally infused dopaminergic compounds in a species lacking an intromittent organ suggested that dopamine action on male sexual behavior does not simply reflect the modulation of genital reflexes due to general arousal, but relates to the central control of sexual motivation. Together, these data support the claim that dopamine specifically regulates male sexual behavior.

Dopamine receptors in a songbird brain

Dopamine is a key neuromodulatory transmitter in the brain. It acts through dopamine receptors to affect changes in neural activity, gene expression, and behavior. In songbirds, dopamine is released into the striatal song nucleus Area X, and the levels depend on social contexts of undirected and directed singing. This differential release is associated with differential expression of activity-dependent genes, such as egr1 (avian zenk), which in mammalian brain are modulated by dopamine receptors. Here we cloned from zebra finch brain cDNAs of all avian dopamine receptors: the D1 (D1A, D1B, D1D) and D2 (D2, D3, D4) families. Comparative sequence analyses of predicted proteins revealed expected phylogenetic relationships, in which the D1 family exists as single exon and the D2 family exists as spliced exon genes. In both zebra finch and chicken, the D1A, D1B, and D2 receptors were highly expressed in the striatum, the D1D and D3 throughout the pallium and within the mesopallium, respectively, and the D4 mainly in the cerebellum. Furthermore, within the zebra finch, all receptors, except for D4, showed differential expression in song nuclei relative to the surrounding regions and developmentally regulated expression that decreased for most receptors during the sensory acquisition and sensorimotor phases of song learning. Within Area X, half of the cells expressed both D1A and D2 receptors, and a higher proportion of the D1A-only-containing neurons expressed egr1 during undirected but not during directed singing. Our findings are consistent with hypotheses that dopamine receptors may be involved in song development and social context-dependent behaviors. J. Comp. Neurol. 518:741–769, 2010. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

7α-hydroxypregnenolone, a new key regulator of locomotor activity of vertebrates: identification, mode of action, and functional significance

Steroids synthesized de novo by the central and peripheral nervous systems are called neurosteroids. The formation of neurosteroids from cholesterol in the brain was originally demonstrated in mammals by Baulieu and colleagues. Our studies over the past two decades have also shown that, in birds and amphibians as in mammals, the brain expresses several kinds of steroidogenic enzymes and produces a variety of neurosteroids. Thus, de novo neurosteroidogenesis from cholesterol is a conserved property that occurs throughout vertebrates. However, the biosynthetic pathways of neurosteroids in the brain of vertebrates was considered to be still incompletely elucidated. Recently, 7α-hydroxypregnenolone was identified as a novel bioactive neurosteroid stimulating locomotor activity in the brain of newts and quail through activation of the dopaminergic system. Subsequently, diurnal and seasonal changes in synthesis of 7α-hydroxypregnenolone in the brain were demonstrated. Interestingly, melatonin derived from the pineal gland and eyes regulates 7α-hydroxypregnenolone synthesis in the brain, thus inducing diurnal locomotor changes. Prolactin, an adenohypophyseal hormone, regulates 7α-hydroxypregnenolone synthesis in the brain, and may also induce seasonal locomotor changes. This review highlights the identification, mode of action, and functional significance of 7α-hydroxypregnenolone, a new key regulator of locomotor activity of vertebrates, in terms of diurnal and seasonal changes in 7α-hydroxypregnenolone synthesis, and describes some of their regulatory mechanisms.

Dopaminergic system in birdsong learning and maintenance

Dopamine function in birdsong has been studied extensively in recent years. Several song and auditory nuclei are innervated by midbrain dopaminergic fibers and contain neurons with various dopamine receptors. During sexually motivated singing, activity of midbrain dopaminergic neurons in the ventral tegmental area and dopamine release in the striatal Area X, involved in song learning and maintenance, are higher. In this review we provide an overview of the dopaminergic system and neurotransmission in songbirds and the outline of possible involvement of dopamine in control of song learning, production, and maintenance. Based on both behavioral and computational biology data, we describe several models of song learning and the proposed role of dopamine in them. Special attention is given to possible role of dopamine in incentive salience (wanting) and reward prediction error signaling during song learning and maintenance, as well as the role of dopamine-mediated synaptic plasticity in reward processing. Finally, the role of dopamine in determination of personality traits in relation to birdsong is discussed.

Kinetics and pharmacology of the D1- and D2-like dopamine receptors in Japanese quail brain

Although the avian brain dopamine system and its functions have been studied much less than the mammalian one, there is an increasing interest in the role of dopamine and its receptors in a wide variety of motor, cognitive and emotional functions in birds with implications for basic research, medicine or agriculture. Pharmacological characterisation of the avian dopamine receptors has had little attention. In this paper we characterise the two classes of dopamine receptors in Japanese quail brain by radioligand binding techniques using [(3)H]SCH 23390 (D(1)) and [(3)H]spiperone (D(2)). Association, dissociation and saturation analyses showed that the binding of both radioligands is time- and concentration-dependent, saturable and reversible. Apparent dissociation constants determined for [(3)H]SCH 23390 and [(3)H]spiperone from concentration isotherms were 1.07 and 0.302 nM and the maximum binding capacities were 89.3 and 389.3 fmol per mg of protein, respectively. Using competitive binding studies with a spectrum of dopamine and other neurotransmitter receptor agonists/antagonists, the [(3)H]SCH 23390 and [(3)H]spiperone binding sites were characterised pharmacologically. Pharmacological profiles of quail dopamine receptors showed a high degree of pharmacological homology with other vertebrate dopamine receptors. The data presented extend the knowledge of kinetics and pharmacology of D(1)- and D(2)-like dopamine receptors in birds, provide data for avian psychopharmacological and comparative studies and represent an important complement to studies using cell expression systems.

Species differences in the relative densities of D1- and D2-like dopamine receptor subtypes in the Japanese quail and rats: an in vitro quantitative receptor autoradiography study

Evidence has accumulated that the regulation of male sexual behavior by dopamine might not be the same in Japanese quail (and perhaps all birds) as it is in mammals. For example, the non-selective dopamine receptor agonist, apomorphine (APO), facilitates male sexual behavior in rats but inhibits it in quail. Although the general organization of the dopamine system is similar in birds and mammals, it is possible that the relative distribution and/or density of binding sites are different. We therefore compared the relative densities of D1-like and D2-like receptor subtypes in Japanese quail and rats, with the use of in vitro quantitative receptor autoradiography. Brain sections from 8 male rats and 8 male quail were labeled with [(3)H]SCH-23390 and [(3)H]Spiperone. In general we found a systematic species difference in the relative density of D1- vs. D2-like receptors such that the D2/D1 ratio is higher in quail than in rats in areas, known to be important target sites for dopamine action such as striatal regions or the preoptic area, which is also associated with activation of sexual behavior. This difference might explain the variation in the behavioral effectiveness of APO in rats as compared to quail; with a higher relative density of D2-like receptors in quail, a similar dose of APO would be more likely to activate inhibitory processes in quail than in rats.

D1-like dopamine receptor density in nuclei involved in social behavior correlates with song in a context-dependent fashion in male European starlings

Research in songbirds shows that singing behavior is regulated by both brain areas involved in vocal behavior as well as those involved in social behavior. Interestingly, the precise role of these regions in song can vary as a function of the social, environmental and breeding context. To date, little is known about the neurotransmitters underlying such context-dependent regulation of song. Dopamine (DA) modulates highly motivated, goal-directed behaviors (including sexually motivated song) and emerging data implicate DA in the context-dependent regulation of singing behavior. This study was performed to begin to examine whether differences in DA receptors may underlie, in part, context-dependent differences in song production. We used autoradiographic procedures to label D1-like and D2-like DA receptors to examine the relationship between DA receptor density and singing behavior in multiple contexts in male European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris). Within a breeding context (when testosterone (T) was high), D1-like receptor density in the medial preoptic nucleus (POM) and midbrain central gray (GCt) negatively correlated with song used to attract a female. Additionally in this context, D1-like receptor density in POM, GCt, medial bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BSTm), and lateral septum (LS) negatively correlated with song likely used to defend a nest box. In contrast, in a non-breeding context (when T was low), D1-like receptor density in POM and LS positively correlated with song used to maintain social flocks. No relationships were identified between song in any context and D2-like receptor densities. Differences in the brain regions and directional relationships between D1-like receptor binding and song suggest that dopaminergic systems play a region and context-specific role in song. These data also suggest that individual variation in singing behavior may, in part, be explained by individual differences in D1-like receptor density in brain regions implicated in social behavior.

Interplay among catecholamine systems: dopamine binds to alpha2-adrenergic receptors in birds and mammals

Dopaminergic and adrenergic receptors are G-protein-coupled receptors considered to be different based on their pharmacology and signaling pathways. Some receptor subtypes that are members of one family are actually closer in phylogenetic terms to some subtypes belonging to the other family, suggesting that the pharmacological specificity among these receptors from different families is not perfect. Indeed, evidence is accumulating that one amine can cross-talk with receptors belonging to the other system. However, most of these observations were collected in vitro using artificial cell models transfected with cloned receptors, so that the occurrence of this phenomenon in vivo as well as its distribution in the central nervous system is not known. In this study the pharmacological basis of possible in vivo interactions between dopamine and alpha(2)-adrenergic receptors was investigated in quail, zebra finches, and rats. Binding competitions showed that dopamine displaces the binding of the selective alpha(2)-adrenergic ligand, [(3)H]RX821002, in the brain of the three species with an affinity approximately 10-28-fold lower than that of norepinephrine. Dopamine also displaces with an affinity 3-fold lower than norepinephrine the binding of [(3)H]RX821002 to human alpha(h2A)-adrenergic receptors expressed in Sf9 cells. The anatomical distribution of this interaction was assessed in brain slices of quail and rat based on autoradiographic methods. Both norepinephrine and dopamine significantly displace [(3)H]RX821002 binding in all brain nuclei considered. Together, these data provide evidence for an interaction between the dopaminergic and noradrenergic systems in the vertebrate brain, albeit with species variations.

Evidence that dopamine within motivation and song control brain regions regulates birdsong context-dependently

Vocal communication is critical for successful social interactions among conspecifics, but little is known about how the brain regulates context-appropriate communication. The neurotransmitter dopamine (DA) is involved in modulating highly motivated, goal-directed behaviors (including sexually motivated singing behavior), and emerging data suggest that the role of DA in vocal communication may differ depending on the context in which it occurs. To address this possibility, relationships between immunolabeled tyrosine hydroxylase (TH, the rate-limiting enzyme in catecholamine synthesis) and song produced within versus outside of a breeding context were explored in male European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris). Immunocytochemistry for dopamine beta-hydroxylase (DBH; the enzyme that converts DA to norepinephrine) was also performed to provide insight into whether relationships between song and TH immunoreactivity reflected dopaminergic or noradrenergic neurotransmission. Measures of TH and DBH were quantified in song control regions (HVC, Area X, robust nucleus of the acropallium) and regions implicated in motivation (medial preoptic nucleus (POM), ventral tegmental area (VTA), and midbrain central gray). In Area X, POM, and VTA measures of TH correlated with song produced within, but not outside of a breeding context. DBH in these regions did not correlate with song in either context. Together, these data suggest DA in both song control and motivation brain regions may be more tightly linked to the regulation of highly goal-directed, sexually motivated vocal behavior.

7Alpha-hydroxypregnenolone mediates melatonin action underlying diurnal locomotor rhythms

Melatonin regulates diurnal changes in locomotor activity in vertebrates, but the molecular mechanism for this neurohormonal regulation of behavior is poorly understood. Here we show that 7alpha-hydroxypregnenolone, a previously undescribed avian neurosteroid, mediates melatonin action on diurnal locomotor rhythms in quail. In this study, we first identified 7alpha-hydroxypregnenolone and its stereoisomer 7beta-hydroxypregnenolone in quail brain. These neurosteroids have not been described previously in avian brain. We then demonstrated that 7alpha-hydroxypregnenolone acutely increased quail locomotor activity. To analyze the production of 7alpha-hydroxypregnenolone, cytochrome P450(7alpha), a steroidogenic enzyme of this neurosteroid, was also identified. Subsequently, we demonstrated diurnal changes in 7alpha-hydroxypregnenolone synthesis in quail. 7Alpha-Hydroxypregnenolone synthesis and locomotor activity in males were much higher than in females. This is the first demonstration in any vertebrate of a clear sex difference in neurosteroid synthesis. This sex difference in 7alpha-hydroxypregnenolone synthesis corresponded to the sex difference in locomotion. We show that only males exhibited marked diurnal changes in 7alpha-hydroxypregnenolone synthesis, and these changes occurred in parallel with changes in locomotor activity. Finally, we identified melatonin as a key component of the mechanism regulating 7alpha-hydroxypregnenolone synthesis. Increased synthesis of 7alpha-hydroxypregnenolone occurred in males in vivo after melatonin removal via pinealectomy and orbital enucleation (Px plus Ex). Conversely, decreased synthesis of this neurosteroid occurred after melatonin administration to Px plus Ex males. This study demonstrates that melatonin regulates synthesis of 7alpha-hydroxypregnenolone, a key factor for induction of locomotor activity, thus inducing diurnal locomotor changes in male birds. This is a previously undescribed role for melatonin.

Dopamine binds to alpha(2)-adrenergic receptors in the song control system of zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata)

A commonly held view is that dopamine exerts its effects via binding to D1- and D2-dopaminergic receptors. However, recent data have emerged supporting the existence of a direct interaction of dopamine with adrenergic but this interaction has been poorly investigated. In this study, the pharmacological basis of possible in vivo interactions between dopamine and alpha(2)-adrenergic receptors was investigated in zebra finches. A binding competition study showed that dopamine displaces the binding of the alpha(2)-adrenergic ligand, [(3)H]RX821002, in the brain. The affinity of dopamine for the adrenergic sites does not differ between the sexes and is 10- to 28-fold lower than that for norepinephrine. To assess the anatomical distribution of this interaction, binding competitions were performed on brain slices incubated in 5nM [(3)H]RX821002 in the absence of any competitor or in the presence of norepinephrine [0.1microM] or dopamine [1microM]. Both norepinephrine and dopamine displaced the binding of the radioligand though to a different extent in most of the regions studied (e.g., area X, the lateral part of the magnocellular nucleus of anterior nidopallium, HVC, arcopallium dorsale, ventral tegmental area and substantia grisea centralis) but not in the robust nucleus of the arcopallium. Together these data provide evidence for a direct interaction between dopamine and adrenergic receptors in songbird brains albeit with regional variation.

Evidence that female endocrine state influences catecholamine responses to male courtship song in European starlings

Little is known about the neural control of female responses to male courtship. Female European starlings in breeding condition with high concentrations of estrogen select mates based on variation in song and approach nest boxes broadcasting male song. In contrast, outside of the breeding season (when estrogen is low) females do not display the same response to male song. The catecholamines dopamine and norepinephrine regulate behaviors important for mate choice such as arousal, attention, sexual motivation, and goal-directed approach responses, suggesting a role for catecholamines in female responses to male song. In the present study, treating females with a dopamine agonist inhibited, whereas an antagonist stimulated female interest in nest boxes broadcasting male song. In a second study immunocytochemistry was used to examine the distribution of the phosphorylated (i.e., active) form of tyrosine hydroxylase (pTH), the rate-limiting enzyme for catecholamine synthesis. Exposure to male song in breeding condition females reduced pTH density in brain regions involved in social behavior (lateral septum, ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus) and a region involved in visual processing (nucleus of Edinger-Westphal) but not song control regions. Opposite patterns of pTH labeling densities were observed in the same regions in response to song in non-breeding condition females. pTH in the ventral tegmental area was also affected by song and female endocrine condition. Overall, the present data support an inhibitory role for dopamine in female responses to courtship and suggest that endocrine state and catecholamines interact to regulate this behavior.

Dopaminergic modulation of reproductive behavior and activity in male zebra finches

We previously demonstrated that hormone treatments which stimulate female-directed singing increased levels and turnover of dopamine (DA) in brain areas controlling the motor patterning of song. To help determine how DA affects singing, we quantified the effects of treating adult male finches with the D1/D2 receptor antagonist cis-flupenthixol. Adult males were given subcutaneous silastic implants of androgen, in case drug treatment interfered with androgen secretion. One week later, they were tested with females. Males were divided into three groups matched for levels of courtship singing. Males were then subcutaneously implanted with osmotic minipumps containing either saline, a low, or a high dose of cis-flupenthixol. Each male was tested with a different female 5 and 10 days after implantation to determine how this D1/D2 receptor antagonist affected behavior. Both drug doses affected female-directed singing 5 days after initiation of treatment. High-dose males sang to females significantly less often than males in the other two groups. Low-dose males showed fewer high-intensity courtship displays in which males dance towards females as they sing. These effects on courtship singing were not seen at day 10, though other behavioral effects were seen at this time. Male beak wipes, rocks, following females and female withdrawals from males were also affected by drug treatment. General activity in the home cage was decreased by day 11. These data demonstrate that singing and several other female-directed behaviors are sensitive to perturbations in DA receptor function.

Quantitative autoradiography of ligands for dopamine receptors and transporters in brain of Göttingen minipig: comparison with results in vivo

The pig has been used as animal model for positron emission tomography (PET) studies of dopamine (DA) receptors and pharmacological perturbations of DA neurotransmission. However, the binding properties of DA receptors and transporters in pig brain have not been characterized in vitro. Therefore, the saturation binding parameters of [3H]SCH 23390 for DA D1 receptors and [3H]raclopride for DA D2/3 receptors were measured by quantitative autoradiography in cryostat sections from brain of groups of 8 week old and adult female Göttingen minipigs. The magnitudes of Bmax and Kd for these ligands were similar in young and old pigs, and were close to those reported for rat and human brain. Furthermore, gradients in the concentrations of D1 and D2/3 sites in striatum measured in vitro agreed with earlier findings in PET studies. However, the dopamine transporter (DAT) ligand [3H]GBR12935 did not bind in pig brain cryostat sections. Whereas the tropane derivative [125I]RTI-55 labeled serotonin transporters (serotonin transporter (SERT)) in pig brain, use of the same ligand under conditions specific for DAT, revealed a pattern of binding similar to that observed for SERT conditions. Parallel studies revealed the presence of DAT in rat and ferret brain. The distribution volume (Vd) of the selective DAT ligand [11C]NS2214 ([11C]Brasofensine) was mapped in groups of normal and MPTP-lesioned Göttingen miniature pigs. The in vivo pattern of Vd matched the distribution of SERT in vitro, and did not differ between the normal pigs and the lesioned animals with documented 60% DA depletions. However, the pattern of specific binding of the selective noradrenaline transporter ligand (S,S)-[11C]MeNER in a single Landrace pig showed that, of the three monoamine transporters, only DAT could not be detected in pig brain. We conclude that the pig is a suitable model for PET studies of DA D1 and D2/3 binding sites, which are fully developed on the eighth postnatal week. However, well-characterized piperazine and tropane radioligands failed to recognize DAT in pig brain; the two tropane radioligands lacked pharmacological specificity for DAT and SERT in pig brain in vitro and in vivo.

Immediate early gene activity in song control nuclei and brain areas regulating motivation relates positively to singing behavior during, but not outside of, a breeding context

In some species, such as songbirds, much is known about how the brain regulates vocal learning, production, and perception. What remains a mystery is what regulates the motivation to communicate. European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) sing throughout most of the year, but the social and environmental factors that motivate singing behavior differ seasonally. Male song is highly sexually motivated during, but not outside of, the breeding season. Brain areas outside the song control system, such as the medial preoptic nucleus (POM) and ventral tegmental area (VTA), have been implicated in regulating sexually motivated behaviors in birds, including song. The present study was designed to explore whether these regions, as well as three song control nuclei [area X, the high vocal center (HVC), and the robust nucleus of the arcopallium (RA)], might be involved differentially in song produced within compared to outside of a breeding context. We recorded the behavioral responses of breeding and nonbreeding condition male starlings to the introduction of a female conspecific. Males did not show context-dependent differences in the overall amount of song sung. However, immunocytochemistry for the protein product of the immediate early gene cFOS revealed a positive linear relationship between the total amount of songs sung and number of cFOS-labeled cells in POM, VTA, HVC, and RA for birds singing during, but not outside of, a breeding context. These results suggest that these regions differentially regulate male song production depending on reproductive context. Overall the data support the hypothesis that the POM and VTA interact with the song control system, specifically HVC and RA, to regulate sexually motivated vocal communication in songbirds.

Rapid effects of aromatase inhibition on male reproductive behaviors in Japanese quail

Non-genomic effects of steroid hormones on cell physiology have been reported in the brain. However, relatively little is known about the behavioral significance of these actions. Male sexual behavior is activated by testosterone partly through its conversion to estradiol via the enzyme aromatase in the preoptic area (POA). Brain aromatase activity (AA) changes rapidly which might in turn be important for the rapid regulation of behavior. Here, acute effects of Vorozole, an aromatase inhibitor, injected IP at different doses and times before testing (between 15 and 60 min), were assessed on male sexual behavior in quail. To limit the risk of committing both types of statistical errors (I and II), data of all experiments were entered into a meta-analysis. Vorozole significantly inhibited mount attempts (P < 0.05, size effect [g] = 0.527) and increased the latency to first copulation (P < 0.05, g = 0.251). The treatment had no effect on the other measures of copulatory behavior. Vorozole also inhibited appetitive sexual behavior measured by the social proximity response (P < 0.05, g = 0.534) or rhythmic cloacal sphincter movements (P < 0.001, g = 0.408). Behavioral inhibitions always reached a maximum at 30 min. Another aromatase inhibitor, androstatrienedione, induced a similar rapid inhibition of sphincter movements. Radioenzyme assays demonstrated that within 30 min Vorozole had reached the POA and completely blocked AA measured in homogenates. When added to the extracellular milieu, Vorozole also blocked within 5 min the AA in POA explants maintained in vitro. Together, these data demonstrate that aromatase inhibition rapidly decreases both consummatory and appetitive aspects of male sexual behavior.

Rapid decreases in preoptic aromatase activity and brain monoamine concentrations after engaging in male sexual behavior

In Japanese quail, as in rats, the expression of male sexual behavior over relatively long time periods (days to weeks) is dependent on the local production of estradiol in the preoptic area via the aromatization of testosterone. On a short-term basis (minutes to hours), central actions of dopamine as well as locally produced estrogens modulate behavioral expression. In rats, a view of and sexual interaction with a female increase dopamine release in the preoptic area. In quail, in vitro brain aromatase activity (AA) is rapidly modulated by calcium-dependent phosphorylations that are likely to occur in vivo as a result of changes in neurotransmitter activity. Furthermore, an acute estradiol injection rapidly stimulates copulation in quail, whereas a single injection of the aromatase inhibitor vorozole rapidly inhibits this behavior. We hypothesized that brain aromatase and dopaminergic activities are regulated in quail in association with the expression of male sexual behavior. Visual access as well as sexual interactions with a female produced a significant decrease in brain AA, which was maximal after 5 min. This expression of sexual behavior also resulted in a significant decrease in dopaminergic as well as serotonergic activity after 1 min, which returned to basal levels after 5 min. These results demonstrate for the first time that AA is rapidly modulated in vivo in parallel with changes in dopamine activity. Sexual interactions with the female decreased aromatase and dopamine activities. These data challenge established views about the causal relationships among dopamine, estrogen action, and male sexual behavior.

Dopamine modulates male sexual behavior in Japanese quail in part via actions on noradrenergic receptors

In rats, dopamine (DA) facilitates male sexual behavior through its combined action on D1- and D2-like receptors, in the medial preoptic area (MPOA) as well as other brain areas. In Japanese quail, systemic injections of dopaminergic drugs suggested a similar pharmacology but central injections have never been performed. Recent electrophysiological experiments demonstrated that DA effects in the MPOA of quail are mediated mainly through the activation of alpha2-noradrenergic receptors. Previous studies of DA action on behavior used specific dopaminergic agonists/antagonists and therefore unintentionally avoided the potential cross-reaction with alpha2-receptors. The present study was thus designed to investigate directly the effects of DA on male sexual behavior and to test whether the interaction of DA with heterologous receptors affects this behavior. Intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection of DA or NE inhibited copulation in a dose-dependent manner. Systemic injections of yohimbine, an alpha2-noradrenergic antagonist, modulated copulation in a bimodal manner depending on the dose injected. Interestingly, a behaviorally ineffective dose of yohimbine markedly reduced the inhibitory effects of DA when injected 15min before. Together, these results show for the first time that i.c.v. injections of DA itself inhibit male sexual behavior in quail and suggest that the interaction of DA with alpha2-receptors has behavioral significance.

Electrophysiological and neurochemical characterization of neurons of the medial preoptic area in Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica)

Intracellular recordings of medial preoptic neurons demonstrated that most neurons show a spontaneous firing, a linear I-V relationship and low-threshold-like events suppressed by the application of Ni2+. Some neurons had a depolarizing sag of the membrane potential in response to hyperpolarizing current pulses. The majority of the cells exhibited a robust spontaneous synaptic activity suppressed by SR95531 (100 microM), a GABAA receptor antagonist, and/or by 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione (CNQX, 10 microM), an (RS)-alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid (AMPA)/kainate (KA) glutamate receptor antagonist. Most neurons were affected by the application of AMPA (10 microM), kainate (30 microM), N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA, 10 microM), isoguvacine (a GABAA receptor agonist, 100 microM), dopamine (100 microM), and norepinephrine (100 microM). Biocytin injections coupled to aromatase immunocytochemistry identified 19 recorded neurons including 3 displaying a dense aromatase immunoreactivity. All of them responded to kainate, dopamine, and norepinephrine, while only one responded to isoguvacine and NMDA. Taken together, these results demonstrate a relative electrical and neurochemical homogeneity of the medial preoptic neurons, including a few aromatase-immunoreactive neurons that could be identified by immunocytochemistry after biocytin labeling of the recorded neurons.

Abundance and location of DARPP-32 in striato-tegmental circuits of domestic chicks

The striatum is reciprocally connected to the brainstem dopaminergic nuclei and receives a strong dopaminergic input. In the present study the spatial relation between the dopaminergic and dopaminoceptive structures of the avian medial striatum (formerly: lobus parolfactorius) was observed by confocal laser scanning microscope in the domestic chick (Gallus domesticus). We also analysed the connections in the area ventralis tegmentalis and the substantia nigra. To label the dopaminergic structures, anti-tyrosine hydroxylase was used and DARPP-32 (dopamine and cAMP regulated phosphoprotein) was a marker of dopaminoceptive elements. The tyrosine hydroxylase positive fibres formed baskets of juxtapositions around the DARPP-32 containing cells of the medial striatum. However, such baskets were also observed to juxtapose DARPP-32 immunonegative cells. In the tegmentum, DARPP-32 was observed in axons descending from the telencephalon via the ansa lenticularis. These varicose fibers innervated the ventral tegmental area and substantia nigra and were often juxtaposed to dopaminergic neurons and dendrites. Approximately 40% of the striatal projection neurons targeting the ventral tegmentum, and 60% of striatal projection neurons targeting the nigra were immunoreactive to DARPP-32, as revealed by retrograde pathway tracing with Fast Blue. Endogenous dopamine may exert a retrograde synaptic effect on the afferent striato-tegmental fibers, apart from the reported extrasynaptic action. The abundance of juxtapositions observed in the avian brainstem and medial striatum corroborates the possibility of reciprocal striato-tegmental circuits, relevant to the reinforcement of behaviour.

Dopamine activates noradrenergic receptors in the preoptic area

Dopamine (DA) facilitates male sexual behavior and modulates aromatase activity in the quail preoptic area (POA). Aromatase neurons in the POA receive dopaminergic inputs, but the anatomical substrate that mediates the behavioral and endocrine effects of DA is poorly understood. Intracellular recordings showed that 100 microm DA hyperpolarizes most neurons in the medial preoptic nucleus (80%) by a direct effect, but depolarizes a few others (10%). DA-induced hyperpolarizations were not blocked by D1 or D2 antagonists (SCH-23390 and sulpiride). Extracellular recordings confirmed that DA inhibits the firing of most cells (52%) but excites a few others (24%). These effects also were not affected by DA antagonists (SCH-23390 and sulpiride) but were blocked by alpha2-(yohimbine) and alpha1-(prazosin) noradrenergic receptor antagonists, respectively. Two dopamine-beta-hydroxylase (DBH) inhibitors (cysteine and fusaric acid) did not block the DA-induced effects, indicating that DA is not converted into norepinephrine (NE) to produce its effects. The pK(B) of yohimbine for the receptor involved in the DA- and NE-induced inhibitions was similar, indicating that the two monoamines interact with the same receptor. Together, these results demonstrate that the effects of DA in the POA are mediated mostly by the activation of alpha2 (inhibition) and alpha1 (excitation) adrenoreceptors. This may explain why DA affects the expression of male sexual behavior through its action in the POA, which contains high densities of alpha2-noradrenergic but limited amounts of DA receptors. This study thus clearly demonstrates the existence of a cross talk within CNS catecholaminergic systems between a neurotransmitter and heterologous receptors.

Functional circuitry of the avian basal ganglia: implications for basal ganglia organization in stem amniotes

Histochemical, pathway tracing, and neuropeptide/neurotransmitter localization studies in birds, reptiles and mammals during the 1970s and 80s clearly showed that the telencephalon in all amniotes consists of a prominent ventrally situated subpallial region termed the basal ganglia, and a large overlying region involved in higher order information processing termed the pallium or cortex. These studies also showed that the basal ganglia in all extant amniote groups possessed neurochemically and hodologically distinct striatal and pallidal territories. More recently, studies of the localization of genes controlling regional brain development have confirmed the homology of the basal ganglia among amniotes. In our ongoing studies, we have identified several aspects of the functional organization of the basal ganglia that birds also share with mammals. These include: (1) an extensive glutamatergic "cortico"-striatal input and distinctive, cell-type specific localization of glutamate receptor subtypes; (2) an extensive, presumptively glutamatergic intralaminar thalamic input to striatal neurons; (3) an extensive dopaminergic input from the midbrain targeting both substance P (SP) type and enkephalin (ENK) type striatal projection neurons, with SP-type striatal neurons seemingly richer in the D-1 type dopamine receptor; and (4) SP+ and ENK+ striatal outputs giving rise to functionally distinct so-called direct and indirect motor output pathways, with the direct pathway having a pallido-thalamo-motor cortex loop and the indirect pathway relaying back to the direct circuit via the subthalamic nucleus. These findings suggest that the major aspects of the cellular organization and functional circuitry of the basal ganglia in stem amniotes were already as observed in living amniotes, as therefore presumably was its key role in movement control. Because the organization of the basal ganglia of anamniotes is clearly less elaborate than in amniotes, and because the basal ganglia and cortex in amniotes are clearly extensively interconnected structures, it seems likely that stem amniotes were characterized by a major step forward in the grade of telencephalic organization of both the basal ganglia and the pallium.

Distribution of DARPP-32 immunoreactive structures in the quail brain: anatomical relationship with dopamine and aromatase

We recently demonstrated that dopamine (DA) as well as different DA receptor agonists and antagonists are able to decrease within a few minutes the aromatase activity (AA) measured in vitro in homogenates or in explants of the quail preoptic area - hypothalamus. In addition, DA also appears to regulate AA, in vivo presumably by modifying enzyme synthesis. The cellular mechanisms and the anatomical substrate that mediate these controls of AA by DA are poorly understood. Tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive (TH-ir) fibers and punctate structures have been previously observed in close vicinity of aromatase-immunoreactive (ARO-ir) cells in the quail medial preoptic nucleus (POM) and bed nucleus striae terminalis (BST) but these fibers could reflect a noradrenergic innervation. We also do not know whether aromatase cells are dopaminoceptive. The main goal of the present study was therefore to bring more information on the anatomical relationships between aromatase expressing neurons and the dopaminergic system in the quail brain. The visualization by immunocytochemistry of DA and of the D1 receptor associated protein DARPP-32 was used to address these questions. DA-ir fibers were observed in the quail forebrain and overlapped extensively with nuclei that contain high densities of ARO-ir cells such as the POM and BST. This confirms that the previously reported TH-ir innervation of ARO-ir cells is, at least in part, of dopaminergic nature. DARPP-32-immunoreactive cells were found in periventricular position throughout the hypothalamus. DARPP-32-ir cells were also observed in telencephalic and mesencephalic areas (hyperstriatum accessorium, paleostriatum, nucleus intercollicularis, optic tectum). DARPP-32-ir fibers were widespread in tel-, di-, and mes-encephalic areas. The highest densities of immunoreactive fibers were detected in the lobus parolfactorius, paleostriatum augmentatum and substantia nigra/area ventralis of Tsai. In double-labeled sections, appositions between DARPP-32 fibers and ARO-ir cells were present in the dorsolateral POM and BST but DARPP-32 immunoreactivity was not detected in the ARO-ir perikarya (no colocalization). These data confirm the presence of a dopaminoceptive structures within the main cell clusters of ARO-ir cells in the quail brain but provide no evidence that these ARO-ir cells are themselves dopaminoceptive. Because DARPP-32 is not present in all types of cells expressing DA receptors, the presence of DA receptors that would not be associated with DARPP-32 in ARO-ir cells still remains to be investigated

Dopamine D(2)-like receptor binding in the brain of male Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica)

Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) have been used extensively to study appetitive behaviors. However, little is known about the appetitive-relevant neurochemical systems in this species. The present investigation examined the distribution of D(2)-like dopamine receptors in the quail brain. [(3)H]Spiperone was incubated in brain tissue homogenates and non-specific binding was defined using (-)-sulpiride. Scatchard analysis of whole brain without cerebellum and forebrain alone indicated approximate K(d)'s of 0.08 and 0.04 nM, respectively. In addition, the preferential D(3) agonist (+/-)-2-dipropylamino-7-hydroxy-1,2,3, 4-tetrahydronaphthalene hydrobromide (7-OH-DPAT) did not displace [(3)H]spiperone binding in quail forebrain. Finally, regional analysis showed that the highest densities of D(2)-like receptors were located in the forebrain. Overall, these results indicate that there is some conservation of dopaminergic mechanisms between aves and mammals. Thus, Japanese quail may be useful for examining the neuropharmacological mechanisms of dopaminergic stimulant drugs that work via D(2)-like receptor activation.

Catecholamine systems in the brain of vertebrates: new perspectives through a comparative approach

A comparative analysis of catecholaminergic systems in the brain and spinal cord of vertebrates forces to reconsider several aspects of the organization of catecholamine systems. Evidence has been provided for the existence of extensive, putatively catecholaminergic cell groups in the spinal cord, the pretectum, the habenular region, and cortical and subcortical telencephalic areas. Moreover, putatively dopamine- and noradrenaline-accumulating cells have been demonstrated in the hypothalamic periventricular organ of almost every non-mammalian vertebrate studied. In contrast with the classical idea that the evolution of catecholamine systems is marked by an increase in complexity going from anamniotes to amniotes, it is now evident that the brains of anamniotes contain catecholaminergic cell groups, of which the counterparts in amniotes have lost the capacity to produce catecholamines. Moreover, a segmental approach in studying the organization of catecholaminergic systems is advocated. Such an approach has recently led to the conclusion that the chemoarchitecture and connections of the basal ganglia of anamniote and amniote tetrapods are largely comparable. This review has also brought together data about the distribution of receptors and catecholaminergic fibers as well as data about developmental aspects. From these data it has become clear that there is a good match between catecholaminergic fibers and receptors, but, at many places, volume transmission seems to play an important role. Finally, although the available data are still limited, striking differences are observed in the spatiotemporal sequence of appearance of catecholaminergic cell groups, in particular those in the retina and olfactory bulb.

Localization of dopamine D1A and D1B receptor mRNAs in the forebrain and midbrain of the domestic chick

The distribution and cellular localization of dopamine D1A and D1B receptor mRNAs in the forebrain and midbrain of the domestic chick were examined using in situ hybridization histochemistry with 35[S]-dATP labeled oligonucleotide probes, visualized with film and emulsion autoradiography. Labeling for D1A receptor mRNA was intense in the medial and lateral striatum, and moderately abundant in the pallial regions termed the archistriatum and the neostriatum, in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus region, and in the superficial gray layer of optic tectum of the midbrain. D1B receptor mRNA was abundant in the medial and lateral striatum, and in the pallial region termed the hyperstriatum ventrale, and moderately abundant in the intralaminar dorsal and posterior thalamus and in the superficial gray of the optic tectum. At the cellular level, about 75% of neurons in the medial striatum and 59% of neurons in the lateral striatum were labeled for D1A receptor mRNA, whereas about 39% of the neurons in the medial striatum and 21% in the lateral striatum were labeled for D1B receptor mRNA. Large striatal neurons were not labeled for D1A or D1B receptor mRNA. The data suggest that while both D1A and D1B receptors mediate dopaminergic responses in many neurons of the avian striatum, primarily D1A receptors mediate dopaminergic responses in the archistriatum and the neostriatum, while primarily D1B receptors mediate dopaminergic responses in the hyperstriatum ventrale and the thalamus.

Influence of food restriction on dopamine receptor densities, catecholamine concentrations and dopamine turnover in chicken brain

To investigate further a putative role of dopamine in control of food restriction-induced behavioural stereotypies, chickens were fed during rearing on either a daily restricted ration recommended by a breeding company, twice the recommended restricted ration, or ad libitum food. They were killed at 60 days of age and their excised brains were dissected into six regions and homogenized. Densities of dopamine D1 and D2 receptors were assessed, after first estimating binding parameters for [3H]SCH 23390 (D1) and [3H]spiperone (D2) in chicken brain homogenates. Specific binding of both ligands was highest in basal telencephalon. Concentrations of dopamine and its metabolites 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid and homovanillic acid were also highest in basal telencephalon, whereas noradrenaline and adrenaline levels were highest in diencephalon. Dopamine concentration in basal telencephalon and noradrenaline concentration in diencephalon were increased significantly in response to food restriction, but no effect of feeding treatment was found in dopamine turnover, adrenaline levels, or D1 and D2 receptor densities in any brain region studied. The observed changes in brain catecholamine levels are consistent with roles for dopaminergic and adrenergic mechanisms in the control of food restriction-induced behavioural stereotypies in chickens.

The dopaminergic innervation of the avian telencephalon

The present review provides an overview of the distribution of dopaminergic fibers and dopaminoceptive elements within the avian telencephalon, the possible interactions of dopamine (DA) with other biochemically identified systems as revealed by immunocytochemistry, and the involvement of DA in behavioral processes in birds. Primary sensory structures are largely devoid of dopaminergic fibers, DA receptors and the D1-related phosphoprotein DARPP-32, while all these dopaminergic markers gradually increase in density from the secondary sensory to the multimodal association and the limbic and motor output areas. Structures of the avian basal ganglia are most densely innervated but, in contrast to mammals, show a higher D2 than D1 receptor density. In most of the remaining telencephalon D1 receptors clearly outnumber D2 receptors. Dopaminergic fibers in the avian telencephalon often show a peculiar arrangement where fibers coil around the somata and proximal dendrites of neurons like baskets, probably providing them with a massive dopaminergic input. Basket-like innervation of DARPP-32-positive neurons seems to be most prominent in the multimodal association areas. Taken together, these anatomical findings indicate a specific role of DA in higher order learning and sensory-motor processes, while primary sensory processes are less affected. This conclusion is supported by behavioral findings which show that in birds, as in mammals, DA is specifically involved in sensory-motor integration, attention and arousal, learning and working memory. Thus, despite considerable differences in the anatomical organization of the avian and mammalian forebrain, the organization of the dopaminergic system and its behavioral functions are very similar in birds and mammals.

Immunohistochemical localization of DARPP32 in striatal projection neurons and striatal interneurons in pigeons

DARPP32 is a D1-receptor associated signaling protein found in striatal projection neurons in mammals, including both substance P-containing (SP+) neurons and enkephalinergic (ENK+) projection neurons. The present study used immunohistochemical single- and double-labeling to examine the cellular localization of DARPP32 in pigeon striatum. Single-label studies revealed that DARPP32 is present in numerous medium-sized striatal perikarya and DARPP32+ axons and terminals were seen to profusely innervate the two major striatal projection targets, the pallidum and the substantia nigra. The single-labeling studies indicated that about 60% of all striatal perikarya labeled for DARPP32+ in striatum, which exceeds the abundance of either SP+ or ENK+ perikarya. Single-labeling studies also showed that the abundance of DARPP32+ fibers and terminals in pallidum exceeds that of either SP+ or ENK+ fibers and terminals in pallidum. Double-labeling found that 30-50% of striatal SP+ perikarya and 7-24% of ENK+ striatal perikarya labeled for DARPP32 in pigeon, and confirmed that DARPP32 was found in both SP+ and ENK+ fibers and terminals in pallidum. In contrast to its prevalence in striatal projection neurons, DARPP32 was virtually absent from cholinergic and NPY+ striatal interneurons, as also true in mammals. Our data are consistent with the interpretation that many SP+ neurons and many ENK+ neurons in avian striatum possess D1-type dopamine receptors and use a DARPP32 signalling pathway, although this may be more common for SP+ than for ENK+ neurons.

Structural and functional evolution of the basal ganglia in vertebrates

While a basal ganglia with striatal and pallidal subdivisions is 1 clearly present in many extant anamniote species, this basal ganglia is cell sparse and receives only a relatively modest tegmental dopaminergic input and little if any cortical input. The major basal ganglia influence on motor functions in anamniotes appears to be exerted via output circuits to the tectum. In contrast, in modern mammals, birds, and reptiles (i.e., modern amniotes), the striatal and pallidal parts of the basal ganglia are very neuron-rich, both consist of the same basic populations of neurons in all amniotes, and the striatum receives abundant tegmental dopaminergic and cortical input. The functional circuitry of the basal ganglia also seems very similar in all amniotes, since the major basal ganglia influences on motor functions appear to be exerted via output circuits to both cerebral cortex and tectum in sauropsids (i.e., birds and reptiles) and mammals. The basal ganglia, output circuits to the cortex, however, appear to be considerably more developed in mammals than in birds and reptiles. The basal ganglia, thus, appears to have undergone a major elaboration during the evolutionary transition from amphibians to reptiles. This elaboration may have enabled amniotes to learn and/or execute a more sophisticated repertoire of behaviors and movements, and this ability may have been an important element of the successful adaptation of amniotes to a fully terrestrial habitat. The mammalian lineage appears, however, to have diverged somewhat from the sauropsid lineage with respect to the emergence of the cerebral cortex as the major target of the basal ganglia circuitry devoted to executing the basal ganglia-mediated control of movement.

Pharmacological characterization, anatomical distribution and sex differences of the non-NMDA excitatory amino acid receptors in the quail brain as identified by CNQX binding

The distribution of non-N-methyl-D-aspartate binding sites was studied in coronal and sagittal sections through the brain of adult Japanese quail by quantitative autoradiography, using tritiated 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione as a radioligand. Saturation binding experiments were, in addition, carried out in areas showing high levels of binding (cerebellar molecular layer, nucleus anterior medialis and nucleus infundibularis) and demonstrated that the binding of tritiated ligand was specific and saturable. Competition studies with alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid and kainic acid indicated that kainic acid strongly inhibited ligand binding in all brain areas. alpha-Amino-3-hydroxy-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid was only a weak inhibitor in the hypothalamic nuclei whereas in the cerebellar molecular layer both high and low affinity inhibitions were detected. The highest binding levels of tritiated ligand were observed in the molecular layer of the cerebellum. Very high levels of binding were detected in various preoptic/hypothalamic sites including the nucleus suprachiasmaticus pars medialis, nucleus anterior medialis hypothalami, nucleus infundibularis, nucleus mammillaris medialis, nucleus posteromediale hypothalami and nucleus hypothalami ventromedialis. High levels of binding were also detected in the bulbus olfactorius, bed nucleus commissuralis anterior, bed nucleus commissuralis pallii, nucleus accumbens, bed nucleus striae terminalis and nucleus interpeduncularis. In the preoptic area/hypothalamus, high levels of binding were clearly present in all areas that contain gonadotropin releasing hormone cells or fibers. In the pons and mesencephalon, moderate levels of binding were associated with catecholaminergic areas such as the area ventralis tegmentalis (area ventralis of Tsai) and the locus coeruleus. Saturation analysis demonstrated the presence of a higher number of binding sites in females than in males in the cerebellar molecular layer, nucleus infundibularis and nucleus anterior medialis. This latter difference was confirmed in the one point assays that also identified higher levels of specific binding in the nucleus suprachiasmaticus pars medialis of males as compared with females. These anatomical data suggest a possible implication of non-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors in the synthesis and/or release of both gonadotropin releasing hormone and catecholaminergic neurotransmitters that should now be tested by pharmacological experiments.

The dopaminergic innervation of the pigeon telencephalon: distribution of DARPP-32 and co-occurrence with glutamate decarboxylase and tyrosine hydroxylase

Dopaminergic axons arising from midbrain nuclei innervate the mammalian and avian telencephalon with heterogeneous regional and laminar distributions. In primate, rodent, and avian species, the neuromodulator dopamine is low or almost absent in most primary sensory areas and is most abundant in the striatal parts of the basal ganglia. Furthermore, dopaminergic fibres are present in most limbic and associative structures. Herein, the distribution of DARPP-32, a phosphoprotein related to the dopamine D1-receptor, was investigated in the pigeon telencephalon by immunocytochemical techniques. Furthermore, co-occurrence of DARPP-32-positive perikarya with tyrosine hydroxylase-positive pericellular axonal "baskets" or glutamate decarboxylase-positive neurons, as well as co-occurrence of tyrosine hydroxylase and glutamate decarboxylase were examined. Specificity of the anti-DARPP-32 monoclonal antibody in pigeon brain was determined by immunoblotting. The distribution of DARPP-32 shared important features with the distribution of D1-receptors and dopaminergic fibres in the pigeon telencephalon as described previously. In particular, DARPP-32 was highly abundant in the avian basal ganglia, where a high percentage of neurons were labelled in the "striatal" parts (paleostriatum augmentatum, lobus parolfactorius), while only neuropil staining was observed in the "pallidal" portions (paleostriatum primitivum). In contrast, DARPP-32 was almost absent or present in comparatively lower concentrations in most primary sensory areas. Secondary sensory and tertiary areas of the neostriatum contained numbers of labelled neurons comparable to that of the basal ganglia and intermediate levels of neuropil staining. Approximately up to one-third of DARPP-32-positive neurons received a basket-type innervation from tyrosine hydroxylase-positive fibres in the lateral and caudal neostriatum, but only about half as many did in the medial and frontal neostriatum, and even less so in the hyperstriatum. No case of colocalization of glutamate decarboxylase and DARPP-32 and no co-occurrence of glutamate decarboxylase-positive neurons and tyrosine hydroxylase-basket-like structures could be detected out of more than 2000 glutamate decarboxylase-positive neurons examined, although the high DARPP-32 and high tyrosine hydroxylase staining density hampered this analysis in the basal ganglia. In conclusion, the pigeon dopaminergic system seems to be organized similar to that of mammals. Apparently, in the telencephalon, dopamine has its primary function in higher level sensory, associative and motor processes, since primary areas showed only weak or no anatomical cues of dopaminergic modulation. Dopamine might exert its effects primarily by modulating the physiological properties of non-GABAergic and therefore presumably excitatory units.