Alpha-Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone Reduces Putative Stress-Induced Sickness Behaviors in Isolated Guinea Pig Pups

Patricia A. Schiml-Webb, Terrence Deak, Tess M. Greenlee, Deborah S. Maken, Michael B. Hennessy

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

We have proposed that passive responses observed following maternal separation in guinea pig pups represent “stress-induced sickness behaviors” mediated by proinflammatory processes. In this study, the anti-inflammatory peptide, alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone ( α -MSH) administered intracerebroventricularly, but not intraperitoneally, reduced the passive responses of crouching, eye-closing, and extensive piloerection relative to levels following administration of vehicle. These findings support our hypothesis and are as would be expected if pro-inflammatory processes act centrally to promote the passive behaviors of separated guinea pig pups.

Original languageAmerican English
JournalBehavioural Brain Research
Volume168
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 3 2006

Keywords

  • Alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone
  • Stress-induced sickness
  • Passive responses
  • Guinea pig
  • Maternal attachment
  • Sickness behavior

Disciplines

  • Psychology
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences

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