Triethyl lead attenuates feeding and drinking, and induces a conditioned taste aversion, in adult rats

The effect of triethyl lead (TEL) on ingestive behavior in adult male rats was studied in two experiments. In experiment 1, ad lib food and water intakes were monitored following SC injection of 1, 4, or 7 mg/kg body weight of TEL or vehicle; both were significantly attenuated at 4 and 7 mg/kg doses. In a second experiment, the same doses of TEL were given SC in a conditioned taste aversion (CTA) paradigm. Following a single pairing, a dose-related reduction in intake of a 0.1% saccharin solution was observed at all doses tested. Sensitivity of behavioral measures and potential role of discomfort in TEL-induced feeding/drinking shifts were considered.