SUBCONVULSIVE EFFECTS OF MONOMETHYLHYDRAZINE ON RUNWAY PERFORMANCE IN THE CAT.
Abstract
Previous neurophysiological and behavioral studies of the toxic propellant UDMH have indicated that its subtle-dose influences can be most effectively evaluated in the cat by reference to trained locomotor performance. To determine similar fundamental information in evaluating monomethylhydrazine (MMH), a related derivative of hydrazine, this same technique was employed. Cats were trained and tested in a special runway apparatus to provide a reliable indication of performance changes over a 6-hour period following the administration of 1, 2, and 4 mg/kg MMH. These low doses significantly altered locomotor performance, both during drug session testing and saline control testing carried out 24 hours later. Within 30 minutes after injection of all three doses of MMH, runway performance was depressed. At 2 and 4 mg/kg, this influence was profound and was associated with overt physiological symptoms of toxicity. A total disruption of performance occurred with 4 mg/kg doses when tested 2-5 hours after administration. Performance was still depressed after 24 hours following 4 mg/kg, but was actually facilitated at this same point following 1 and 2 mg/kg doses. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1969
- Accession Number
- AD0691473
Entities
People
- H. B. Van Twyver
- M. B. Sterman
- M. D. Fairchild
Organizations
- University of California, Los Angeles