Plasma Corticosterone Response to Parameters of Electric Shock Stimulation in the Rat

Abstract

Rats were subjected to one of six intensities of electric shock administered for 30, 60, 120, or 240 sec., and then sacrificed immediately or 5, 15, or 60 min. later. Plasma corticosterone levels were determined and compared to values obtained from both unmanipulated controls and “handled” rats. It was found that merely placing the animals in the experimental cage increased corticosterone levels, and these levels were further elevated as shock intensity and duration were increased.