title: Effects of long-term exposure to trichloroethylene on the behavior of Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus).
abstract: Two groups of Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus) were continuously exposed to 150 ppm trichloroethylene (TCE) for 71 and 106 d, respectively. The behavior of the animals was tested in a symmetrical maze baited with sunflower seeds during a period of 23 d, beginning at the end of exposure. One additional group was exposed for 150 d and then allowed 40 d free from exposure before the start of the maze test. Comparisons between the TCE- and air-exposed animals showed differences in the number of correct choices and the number of seeds consumed in the maze, both after 71 and 106 d of exposure and at the end of the 40-d rehabilitation period that followed the 150-d exposure. The results were interpreted in terms of the "emotionality" of the animals.
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001522:Behavior, Animal / Q000187:drug effects*; D004435:Eating / Q000187:drug effects; D005260:Female; D005849:Gerbillinae; D008297:Male; D014241:Trichloroethylene / Q000633:toxicity*
chemical_list: D014241:Trichloroethylene