The ontogeny of exploratory behaviors in early-protein-malnourished rats exposed to the elevated plus-maze test

摘要: An elevated plus-maze was used to study the ontogeny of exploratory behaviors early-protein-malnourished animals in an experimental aversive situation. Rats were malnourished by feeding their dams a 6% protein diet during lactation period (0–21 days age); controls received 16% diet. From 21 100 age, all rats balanced lab chow At 21, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, and independent groups control exposed allowed explore for 5 min. During this period, 12 behavioral categories (number entries time spent open enclosed arms, total arms entries, attempts enter closed closed-arm returns, latency first entry, immobility time, grooming rearings, head-dippings, stretch attend posture) recorded. The results showed that anxiety increased with age malnutrition produced alterations behaviors. It shown maintained or exploration maze contrast well-nourished animals, which exhibited steady decrease as they matured. higher number suggest causes permanent increase impulsiveness and/or drive open-arm novelty, leading behavior consistent lower relative naturalistic animal model anxiety.