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Spatial memory impairment in OLETF rats without cholecystokinin - a receptor
Hirotaka Matsushita1, Jotaro Akiyoshi, Kiyotaka Kai
1Department of Neuropsychiatry, Oita Medical University, Hasama-Machi, Oita, 879-5593, Japan.
Neuropeptides
|November 11, 2003
Summary
Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) rats exhibit impaired spatial learning and memory. These rats, lacking the cholecystokinin-A receptor, performed poorly in memory tests compared to controls.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neuropharmacology
- Behavioral Neuroscience
Background:
- Cholecystokinin (CCK) is a prevalent neurotransmitter peptide in the brain.
- Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) rats possess a genetic abnormality leading to a lack of the CCK-A receptor.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of CCK-A receptor absence on learning and memory in OLETF rats.
- To assess spatial memory deficits using established behavioral paradigms.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Morris water maze (MWM) test to evaluate spatial learning and memory.
- Employed the step-through type passive avoidance (PA) learning test for memory assessment.
- Compared performance of OLETF rats with control Long-Evans Tokushima Otsuka (LETO) rats.
Main Results:
- OLETF rats demonstrated significant memory impairment in the MWM test.
- OLETF rats made more errors and fewer correct choices in the MWM compared to LETO rats.
- OLETF rats failed to show a facilitating response in the PA test 24 hours post-training.
Conclusions:
- The absence of the CCK-A receptor in OLETF rats leads to impaired spatial memory.
- CCK-A receptor function is crucial for normal learning and memory processes.
- OLETF rats serve as a valuable model for studying CCK-related memory deficits.