A novel female influences delta 9-THC effects on plasma hormone levels in male mice.

Exposure to delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) (50 mg/kg) alters the endocrine responsivity of male mice to female-related exteroceptive stimuli. Exposure to a novel female prevents or delays the THC-induced decrease in plasma testosterone (T) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. These hormonal alterations are apparently not due to the LH-releasing effects of female-related pheromonal or tactile cues, since administration of luteinizing hormone releasing factor (LRF) did not mimic the effects of a novel female on plasma T levels in THC-treated males. Exposure to a much lower dose of THC (0.5 mg/kg) did augment the LRF-induced increases in plasma T levels suggesting a possible synergism between gonadotropins and THC on androgen production. The present findings suggest that THC-induced alterations in hormonal status may be influenced by complex social or environmental factors.