[Neurochemical mechanisms of the effect of ACTH on aggressive-defensive behavior in rats].

It was found that ACTH increased fear and aggressive-defensive behavior in pairs of male rats in response to electrical stimulation. The parameters were the threshold values of squeak reactions, risings and fights, the frequency of fights and the duration of standing in a posture of threat. The ACTH influence was similar to the M-cholinomimetic effect. It increased against the background of M-cholinoreceptors' excitation but did not change in essential under the action of H-cholinoreceptors. An assumption has been made of the extraadrenal action of ACTH on affective aggression. The mechanism of the effect involves facilitation of excitation of the central M-cholinoreceptors.