Arginine vasotocin: effects on open field behavior, whole brain monoamines and plasma corticosterone.

Two experiments were performed to evaluate the effects of Arginine Vasotocin (AVT) on open field behavior, who brain monoamines and plasma corticosterone. In Experiment 1 rats treated with AVT compared to controls displayed an increased initial latency to move, less postural freezing and increased exploration of the central area of the open field. In Experiment 2 it was found that AVT significantly elevated whole brain 5-HT levels (Experiment 2A) without altering levels of dopamine or norepinephrine. Plasma corticosterone was significantly decreased by AVT treatment (Experiment 2B).