Serotonin Transporter Null Mutation and Sexual Behavior in Female Rats: 5-HT1A Receptor Desensitization

The absence (−/−) or reduced (+/−) expression of SERT does not affect basal sexual activity in female rats in a paced mating situation. The data indicate a desensitized 5-HT1A receptor in the SERT−/−, but not in the SERT+/− females. Under normal basal conditions, desensitized 5-HT1A receptors apparently do not play a role in female sexual behavior of the SERT−/−. However, upon activation of the 5-HT1A receptor in “normal” females (SERT+/+ and SERT+/−), a hyposexual behavior is induced. Snoeren E, Chan J, Bovens A, Cuppen E, Waldinger M, Olivier B, and Oosting R. Serotonin transporter null mutation and sexual behavior in female rats: 5-HT1A receptor desensitization.