The effect of adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) on avoidance conditioning in the rat.

Abstract

Two experiments were completed in an attempt to assess the effect of .5mgm of exogenous ACTH on avoidance conditioning in Wistar rats. Conditioning and extinction were completed in a two-compartment apparatus modified to enable observation of the animal without distraction through movements by the experimenter. Although the administration of ACTH during conditioning did not affect the acquisition of the response, it did significantly prolong the subsequent extinction rate.