[Forms of goal-directed behavior as affected by induced changes in the level of endogenous beta-endorphin in rats]

Marked alterations in feeding and defense behaviour and motor activity partly resembling the effects of exogenous beta-endorphin administration were demonstrated in the experiments on rats. These alterations were observed after immunization with beta-endorphin--bovine serum albumin conjugate (two subcutaneous injections at a 7-day interval at a dose of 75 micrograms, 1 mole BSA/6 moles beta-endorphin mixed with complete Freund's adjuvant). A decrease in beta-endorphin content in some brain structures was noted. Unlike control animals, the immunized rats revealed within 3-4 weeks an increase in food intake without any rise in body weight and practically no response to handling.