Region-selective activation of brain monoamine synthesis by sexual activity in the male rat

In vivo catecholamine and 5-HT synthesis during sexual activity and treadmill locomotion was estimated in male rats by measuring the accumulation of DOPA and 5-HTP after inhibition of cerebral aromatic amino acid decarboxylase by means of NSD-1015 (100 mg.kg-1 i.p.). An increase in catecholamine as well as 5-HT synthesis during sexual activity was observed in both the neostriatum and the nucleus accumbens. An increase in catecholamine synthesis during treadmill locomotion was found in the neostriatum only. No significant changes in monoamine synthesis were found in the septal area or in the anterior hypothalamus.