Importance of associative learning processes for one-trial behavioral sensitization of preweanling rats

• DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0b013e32834affb2
• Publication Date: 2011-10-04T22:47:20Z
• Authors: Sanders A. McDougall; Alexandria G. Pot...; Taleen Der-Ghazarian; Matthew S. Herbert; Olga O. Kozanian; Kevin A. Castellanos; Ana T. Flores
• Keywords: Associative learning; Stimulus (psychology); Associative property; Behavioral sensitization

During adulthood, associative learning is necessary for the expression of one-trial behavioral sensitization; however, it uncertain whether same processes are operative during preweanling period. Two strategies were used to assess importance sensitization rats. In initial experiments, we varied both sequence and time interval between presentation conditioned stimulus (CS, novel environment) unconditioned (US, cocaine). final experiment, determined electroconvulsive shock-induced retrograde amnesia would disrupt sensitization. Results showed that robust-sensitized responding was apparent regardless in which cocaine environment (the presumptive CS) presented. Varying CS US (0, 3, or 6 h) also without effect. from experiment 3 single multiple shock treatments did not alter sensitized response. Therefore, these data indicated rats exclusively mediated by nonassociative mechanisms modulate responding. These findings contrast what observed as adult exhibit only when operative.