Effect of 5-HTP and ketanserine on the aggressive reaction induced by food competition in dominant and submissive pigeons (Columba livia).

There is abundant literature about the effects of manipulation of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) systems on some killer behaviors as well as on social isolation and shock-induced aggression in rodents. In this work we have analyzed the effect of 5-HT manipulation on the aggressive behavior induced by food competition in undernourished pigeons. Adult males (n = 12) were caged individually and their body weight kept at 80-85% by a restricted diet. These were divided in pairs which were exposed daily to an aggressive interaction test (20 min) in a 1.5 x 1.5 x 2.0 m chamber bearing a central feeding device. Once consolidation of dominance was obtained in each pair, the dominant and the submissive members were injected subcutaneously, on alternating days, with 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) (7.5, 15 and 30 mg/kg), ketanserine (20 and 30 mg/kg) and a combination of ketanserine (20 mg/kg) and 5-HTP (7.5 mg/kg). Aggression was evaluated by scoring the frequency and time spent biting, wing beating, aggressive following and vocalizations, threatening and pushing the opponent in 20-min tests. The time spent running away was also scored. Intratest feeding was ascertained by weighing the subjects immediately before and after testing. The scores were compared with those obtained after saline injection on the preceding day (C-scores). 5-HTP (7.5 mg/kg) attenuated aggression without affecting feeding in dominant members, and decreased the time spent running away by submissives. Higher doses of 5-HTP decreased feeding but did not potentiate the anti-aggressive effects. The 5-HT2 antagonist, ketanserine did not affect aggression but decreased feeding at the dose of 30 mg/kg. Ketanserine injection clearly prevented the anti-aggressive effects of 5-HTP but caused a decrease of feeding. Results show that 5-HT stimulation in pigeons can preferentially block aggression in this particular experimental situation. It is suggested, in addition, that 5-HT2 receptors might be involved in such an effect.