Molly Schroeder

MS – Fall 2004

Advisor: Lauren Riters

Abstract:   Vocal communication is common, though little is known about the neural mechanisms regulating the motivation to communicate. This study examined a possible role for dopamine and opioids in sexually motivated song in European starlings. The dopamine reuptake inhibitor GBR-12909 increased singing behavior, whereas the non-specific agonist apomorphine decreased song possibly by acting at autoreceptors. The D1 antagonist SCH-23390 and D2 antagonist haloperidol decreased song, suggesting a role for dopamine in the motivation to sing. In contrast, the opioid agonist fentanyl decreased song, and the antagonist naloxone has previously been shown to increase song, findings consistent with a role for opioids in reward associated with song production. These results suggest opposing roles for dopamine and opioids in the motivation to communicate.

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