Impact of Stress and Neurogenesis on Behavior in Mice
Author Information
Author(s): Hayashi Fumihiko, Takashima Noriko, Murayama Akiko, Inokuchi Kaoru
Primary Institution: Mitsubishi Kagaku Institute of Life Sciences
Hypothesis
Decreased neurogenesis in the hippocampus during adolescence may increase vulnerability to psychiatric disorders.
Conclusion
Mice with decreased postnatal neurogenesis during adolescence are more vulnerable to stress, leading to decreased activity and cognitive deficits in adulthood.
Supporting Evidence
- X-irradiated mice showed decreased locomotor activity and prepulse inhibition deficits in adulthood.
- X-irradiation alone had no effects on behavior, indicating the combined impact of stress and neurogenesis inhibition.
- Increased serum corticosterone levels were observed in mice subjected to both X-irradiation and stress.
Takeaway
If baby mice don't grow enough new brain cells during a tough time, they might have trouble later when they grow up.
Methodology
Mice were X-irradiated to inhibit neurogenesis and subjected to electrical footshock stress, with behavioral changes assessed at 20 weeks of age.
Limitations
The stress procedure used was weak and may not fully represent the effects of stronger stressors.
Participant Demographics
Male C57 Black 6J mice, 4 weeks old.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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