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Scopolamine-induced impairment in concurrent fixed-interval responding in a radial maze task
G R Sessions1, J J Pilcher, T F Elsmore
1Department of Medical Neurosciences, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Washington, DC 20307-5100, USA.
Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior
|March 25, 1998
Summary
Scopolamine hydrobromide impairs complex behaviors like timing and memory in rats, while its analogue has minimal effects. Central cholinergic systems are crucial for these cognitive functions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Cholinergic systems are vital for cognitive functions.
- Distinguishing central from peripheral drug effects is key to understanding behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of scopolamine hydrobromide (SCOP) and scopolamine methylbromide (SCOPMB) on radial arm maze performance.
- To differentiate general motor impairments from specific deficits in timing and memory.
Main Methods:
- Rats were trained on a radial arm maze with a concurrent fixed-interval schedule of food reinforcement.
- Dose-dependent effects of SCOP (0.06-1.0 mg/kg) and SCOPMB were assessed on response patterning, rates, arm entries, and traversal latencies.
Main Results:
- SCOP caused dose-dependent impairments in response patterning and rates, without affecting motor activity.
- SCOPMB showed minor effects, lacking clear dose-response relationships, except for patterning and pellets earned.
Conclusions:
- Central cholinergic mechanisms mediate complex conditioned behaviors, including timing and memory.
- SCOP's central action impacts cognitive tasks, while peripheral SCOPMB has limited behavioral influence.