The Influence of Environmental Changes on the Cardiotoxicity of Isoprenaline in Rats

Abstract

Abstract The influence of environment on the cardiotoxicity of isoprenaline has been examined in rats. Animals kept for 3 months in individual cages exhibited an increased sensitivity compared to their community caged controls when either mortality or the severity of the heart lesion was considered. Animals exposed to cold for one week showed a 1,000–10,000 times increased sensitivity to isoprenaline compared to their controls. A probable mechanism of sensitisation is discussed.