Neuroendocrine responses to physical and psychological stress.

Abstract

Endogenous plasma levels of melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) and ACTH were determined in 279 male albino Holtzman rats following physical (shock) and psychological stress (shock and subsequent replacement in the shock apparatus but with no shock administered). Physical stress resulted in elevation of both MSH and ACTH. Nonphysical stress increased plasma MSH levels. Results suggest that MSH may facilitate adaptive behavior by leading to increased attention or awareness of the environment. (21 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved)