The role of the cholinergic system in footshock-induced mouse aggression

The influence of cholinomimetics and cholinolytics on the aggressive behavior of mice was examined in the footshock-induced fighting (FSIF) test. Pilocarpine, arecoline, physostigmine, oxotremorine and choline chloride were found to potentiate aggression, while anticholinergics - scopolamine, atropine, benactyzine - suppressed aggressive behavior. Studies on the interaction between catecholaminomimetics and cholinergic drugs in the FSIF test suggest that the catecholaminergic and cholinergic systems interact in steering mouse aggression in the behavioral model under examination.