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Stress-Enhanced Fear Learning, a Robust Rodent Model of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Published on: October 13, 2018
Modeling panic disorder in rodents
Fabrício A Moreira1, Pedro H Gobira, Thércia G Viana
1Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
Cell and Tissue Research
|April 16, 2013
Summary
Animal models are crucial for understanding panic disorder (PD) and its treatments. This review evaluates the strengths and limitations of current models in studying PD neurobiology and panic attacks.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Panic disorder (PD) is characterized by spontaneous panic attacks.
- Animal studies are vital for understanding PD neurobiology and treatment.
- A critical review of current animal models' validity is lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the face, construct, and predictive validity of animal models for panic disorder.
- To discuss the strengths and limitations of existing models.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on animal models of panic disorder.
- Analysis of models based on defensive responses, brain stimulation, predator/ultrasound exposure, and the elevated T-maze.
- Assessment of validity criteria (face, construct, predictive).
Main Results:
- Most models assess escape responses to stimuli, often involving brain regions like the periaqueductal grey or hypothalamus.
- Models include predator/ultrasound exposure and the elevated T-maze paradigm.
- Despite limitations, these models offer insights into PD.
Conclusions:
- Animal models are indispensable for advancing the neurobiology and pharmacology of panic disorder.
- Further research using these models can lead to more effective PD treatments.
- Evaluating model validity is key to reliable research findings.
