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Behavioral evaluation of sensory irritation evoked by ammonia

Journal Article · · Toxicol. Appl. Pharmacol.; (United States)
Mice will respond to escape from ammonia vapor, a prototypical airborne chemical irritant. Nose poking at a conical sensor is maintained if it terminates the delivery of ammonia to a small exposure chamber and produces a facial shower of clean, humidified air from the sensor. The duration of exposure to ammonia tolerated decreased as ammonia concentration increased (0.0 to 0.2%). The percentage of ammonia deliveries terminated by a response also increased as concentration increased. The behavior did not result from a general increase in activity. Thus, ammonia vapor delivery is an effective negative reinforcer for the mouse. This technique can help evaluate the aversive properties of atmospheric contaminants.
Research Organization:
Univ. of Rochester School of Medicine, NY
OSTI ID:
6637267
Journal Information:
Toxicol. Appl. Pharmacol.; (United States), Journal Name: Toxicol. Appl. Pharmacol.; (United States) Vol. 50; ISSN TXAPA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English