Climbing and stereotyped behaviours in mice require the stimulation of D-1 dopamine receptors

Apomorphine-induced climbing and sniffing behaviours in mice were antagonized by low doses of SCH 23390 and metoclopramide. The selective D-2 dopamine receptor agonists, LY 17155 and RU 24926, and some other dopamine agonists (piribedil, lergotile, bromocriptine) exerted only inhibitory effects on spontaneous behaviours. The selective D-1 dopamine receptor agonist, SK&F 38393, did not modify the climbing score but increased the sniffing and decreased the gnawing scores compared to the scores of control mice. Typical climbing and stereotyped behaviours were produced by the combination of SK&F 39383 with LY 171555, RU 24926 or with the other dopamine agonists tested. These data suggest that the stimulation of D-1 dopamine receptors is required for the induction of climbing and stereotyped behaviours in mice.