Effect of a specific stress (aldrin) on rat progeny behavior.

The effect of dam exposure to aldrin, an organochlorinated compound (1.0 mg/kg, sc, daily), during pregnancy or lactation was studied in young rat pups (11, 15, 18 and 22 days of age) and in adult animals (90 days of age). Locomotor activity was significantly greater in both young and adult animals when compared to controls. Male rats that received aldrin during lactation also showed reduced plasma corticosterone levels. Maternal behavior was not affected by treatment during either period. The results suggest that aldrin may act as a perinatal stress factor.