Hypothermic effect of 2,4-dinitrophenol infused ICV in the cat.

The effects of body temperature and behavior of 2,4-dinitrophenol injected into the cerebral ventricles of the cat was investigated in these experiments. Infused in a volume of 0.1-0.2 ml, 2,4-dinitrophenol produced a dose-dependent fall in body temperature, the duration of which was also dose-dependent. Apart from hypothermia, 2,4-dinitrophenol evoked mydriasis, respiratory irregularities, urination, vomiting, ataxia, muscular weakness, sedation and occasional clonic-tonic convulsions. Of all the autonomic effects, the most consistent was the effect on thermoregulation. The possible mechanisms of action in the brain of 2,4-dinitrophenol on the thermoregulatory mechanisms are discussed.