Abstract
Previous work has shown that dopaminergic systems are involved in cognitive function in the common marmoset. The present study investigated the role of dopamine D 3 receptors in cognitive performance in the marmoset. The effects of the putative dopamine D 3 receptor agonist, 7-OH-DPAT, on performance of a same-day reversal visual object discrimination task were assessed using a miniature Wisconsin General Test Apparatus (WGTA). Within the same test session marmosets acquired a two-choice object discrimination initial task and a reversal task to criterion. 7-OH-DPAT (6–10 μg/kg) significantly impaired reversal task performance only, without affecting acquisition of the initial task. A higher dose of 25 μg/kg 7-OH-DPAT impaired initial task acquisition as well as reversal task acquisition, possibly as a consequence of a nonspecific influence on motor function. The dopamine D 2 receptor antagonist (−)sulpiride (5–10 μg/kg) and the α 2-receptor antagonist yohimbine (50 μg/kg) failed to attenuate the effects of 7-OH-DPAT (6 μg/kg) in this task. In contrast, the dopamine D 2/D 3 receptor antagonist raclopride (50 μg/kg) significantly attenuated the 7-OH-DPAT–induced impairment of reversal task performance. These results suggest that activation of dopamine D 3 receptors produces a selective impairment of aspects of cognitive function in the marmoset.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
