Serotonin-induced head shaking behavior in rats does not involve receptors located in the frontal cortex.

Serotonin-induced head shaking behavior, a response associated with 5-HT2 receptors, was examined in rats with lesions of the frontal cortex because of the high density of 5-HT2 receptors in this area. Head shaking behavior caused by the serotonin precursor, 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan, or by the serotonergic agonist, quipazine, was unchanged following the complete ablation of the frontal cortex. Although 5-HT2 receptors are associated with the head shake response, this behavior is probably not related to serotonin receptors located in the frontal cortex.