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Quinine-induced hypothermia in cold-exposed rats
Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior
|May 1, 1977
Summary
Quinine hydrochloride (HCl) reduces body temperature in rats by suppressing shivering. However, rats can partially counteract this hypothermia by increasing heat-seeking behavior when given the opportunity.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Physiology
- Thermoregulation
Background:
- Quinine is known to affect body temperature.
- Understanding the mechanisms of hypothermia induction is crucial for physiological research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of quinine hydrochloride on body temperature regulation in nonfebrile rats.
- To determine if quinine alters the thermal setpoint or affects effector mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Administered quinine hydrochloride (10-50 mg/kg) to nonfebrile rats in a cold environment.
- Monitored body temperature and shivering response.
- Assessed behavioral responses to a heat lamp.
Main Results:
- Quinine hydrochloride dose-dependently lowered body temperature.
- The primary mechanism observed was the suppression of shivering.
- Rats injected with quinine exhibited increased heat-seeking behavior, partially counteracting hypothermia.
Conclusions:
- Quinine hydrochloride acts on thermoregulatory effector mechanisms, specifically reducing heat production via shivering.
- The drug does not appear to alter the thermal setpoint.
- Behavioral thermoregulation can partially compensate for drug-induced hypothermia.
