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Neurobehavioral alterations in HIV-1 transgenic rats: evidence for dopaminergic dysfunction
L M Moran1, R M Booze, K M Webb
1Program in Behavioral Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA. moranl@email.sc.edu
Experimental Neurology
|October 16, 2012
Summary
HIV-1 transgenic rats exhibit dopamine system alterations, impacting sensorimotor gating, memory, and cocaine sensitivity, mirroring neurocognitive disorders in humans.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Virology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- HIV-1 infection can lead to neurocognitive disorders (HAND) involving dopamine (DA) system changes.
- Drugs of abuse, like cocaine, may worsen HIV-1 neurological effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate dopamine system alterations in HIV-1 transgenic (Tg) rats.
- To assess behavioral changes related to sensorimotor gating, memory, and cocaine sensitivity.
Main Methods:
- Utilized HIV-1 Tg rats expressing key HIV-1 genes.
- Assessed behavior using prepulse inhibition (PPI) of auditory startle response (ASR), novelty/habituation, and cocaine sensitization.
Main Results:
- HIV-1 Tg rats showed altered sensorimotor gating (PPI) and weaker novelty responses.
- Impaired long-term episodic memory and differential cocaine-induced sensitization were observed.
- Data suggest sustained alterations in the brain DA system in HIV-1 Tg rats.
Conclusions:
- The HIV-1 Tg rat model demonstrates significant, persistent dopamine system alterations.
- These findings provide insights into the neurological underpinnings of HAND.
- The model reflects neurological changes in HIV-1 positive individuals on antiretroviral therapy.
