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Dietary restriction alters fine motor function in rats.
Lori K Smith1, Gerlinde A Metz
1Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, 4401 University Drive, Lethbridge, AB Canada T1K 3M4. lori.smith@uleth.ca
Physiology & Behavior
|July 28, 2005
Summary
Dietary restriction (DR) in animal studies may negatively impact skilled movement and increase hyperactivity. Researchers should carefully consider DR
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Animal Behavior
- Physiology
Background:
- Food rewards are standard in animal behavioral research for positive reinforcement.
- Dietary restriction (DR) enhances motivation but may also induce stress.
- Stress impacts a wide range of behaviors, potentially affecting experimental outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of mild dietary restriction (DR) on skilled motor performance in rats.
- To determine if DR influences behaviors independent of food rewards.
Main Methods:
- Adult male Long-Evans rats were trained on a skilled reaching task.
- Rats underwent a mild DR regimen (90-95% baseline body weight for 8 days).
- Skilled reaching, ladder rung walking, and open field tests were conducted.
Main Results:
- DR decreased reaching success and increased attempts to grasp food pellets.
- DR led to increased hyperactivity and deficits in skilled movements.
- Behavioral changes were observed even in tasks not requiring food rewards.
Conclusions:
- Dietary restriction (DR) can impair skilled motor function and increase hyperactivity in rats.
- Results from motor tasks using food rewards require cautious interpretation due to DR effects.
- The stress associated with DR may underlie observed behavioral changes.