Abstract
The effect of corpus luteum extracts were studied on the behavior of rats in the circular maze according to the methods described by the senior author elsewhere. Sixteen young adult, female rats were trained in the maze until they could solve the problem in the shortest period of time without committing any errors. They were then given injections subcutaneously or intramuscularly of “lutein”, a protein-free extract of corpus luteum of the sow, prepared by Hynson, Westcott and Dunning. It was found that injections of doses varying from 0.2 to 0.5 cc. of lutein in the rats the average weight of which was about 150 gm. produce a distinct stimulation in their muscular activity and cerebro-spinal efficiency. This effect was noticeable 15 minutes after injection of the extracts and persisted for 24 hours. Injections of the corpus luteum in ovariectomized rats produced a similar stimulation in the behavior of the animals. A few experiments performed with injections of extracts of whole ovary yielded the same results. Further details to appear elsewhere. (Journal of Comparative Psychology).
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.