Hormonal variations influences learning - abstract

ABSTRACT

The study attempted to evaluate the influence of hormonal status (gender and oestrous cycle) on learning in male and female rats and to determine whether this difference was affected by dopamine agonists (cocaine and amphetamine). Rats were exposed to foot-shocks in a Y-maze. Exploratory and avoidance behaviours were tested on two trials, 24 hours following conditioning (Trial 1) and 2 weeks subsequently (Trial 2). Amphetamine (1mg/kg/ml) stimulated exploratory behaviour, whereas cocaine (1mg/kg/ml) had a depressant effect at Trial 1. Avoidance learning of a potentially dangerous environment was significantly less in oestrous than in diestrous and male rats. These results provide evidence that hormonal status influences learning. Cocaine and amphetamine given in a single low doses did not produce any significant effects on avoidance learning(AU)