[Stress-inducing behavioral changes and the functions of the neurohormonal systems in monkeys of different social ranks]

Abstract

As a result of intensive stressful stimuli hamadryas baboons developed, depending on their hierarchic status, depression-like states varying in severity. Their development correlated with a drastic release of biogenic amines, activation of pituitary-adrenal system and inhibition of hormonal function of the gonads. It is shown that dominant and low-rank monkeys, in spite of the differences in their initial psychoemotional states and in the blood levels of mediators and hormones, demonstrated marked disintegration in their individual and social behavior. There was a larger increase in the blood concentrations of dopamine, serotonin and cortisol and more significant inhibition of testosterone production under the influence of two-hour immobilization as compared to the subdominant animals.