The effect of L-tryptophan on conditioned reflex learning and behavior in rats with experimental pathology of the thyroid gland.
The effects of L-tryptophan on conditioned reflex learning and behavior were studied in male rats with deficient and excess thyroid hormones levels. The learning process was studied using a model consisting of a conditioned active avoidance response; animal behavior was assessed in an open field test. These studies showed that in conditions of thyroid hormone deficiency. L-tryptophan had positive effects on the acquisition and reproduction of the active avoidance reflex, restoring the ability of the animals to learn actively; L-tryptophan increased investigative activity in the open field test. In conditions of increased thyroid hormone levels, L-tryptophan reversed the mild stimulating effects of thyroid hormones on the processes of developing and performing the active avoidance habit, and increased investigative activity, but decreased the amount of grooming.
S. V. Anichkov Department of Neuropharmacology, Science Research Institute of Experimental Medicine, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, St Petersburg.
N S
NS
Sapronov
Yu O
YO
Fedotova
D000818:Animals; D001362:Avoidance Learning / Q000187:drug effects; D001522:Behavior, Animal / Q000187:drug effects*; D003216:Conditioning, Operant / Q000187:drug effects*; D006980:Hyperthyroidism / Q000523:psychology*; D007031:Hypothalamus / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism; D007037:Hypothyroidism / Q000523:psychology*; D007858:Learning / Q000187:drug effects*; D008297:Male; D051381:Rats; D012701:Serotonin / Q000378:metabolism; D013965:Thyroidectomy; D014284:Triiodothyronine / Q000494:pharmacology; D014364:Tryptophan / Q000494:pharmacology*
D014284:Triiodothyronine; D012701:Serotonin; D014364:Tryptophan