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Effect of schistosomiasis mansoni on open-field exploratory behavior in mice
Abstract:
The response of mice infected with Schistosoma mansoni to a novel environment has been investigated in an attempt to study the effects of the disease on brain cognitive function by using opto-varimix instrument and autotrack computer program. Two to 18 weeks infected mice showed lower ambulatory activities than their matched controls with the largest reduction occurring between weeks 6 to 10. Maximum effects were observed in week 8. The first 5 minutes of ambulatory activities, designated as the "first session", were 22.3% lower in infected mice as compared with controls. The decline in the first session activities of infected mice was slower than the controls. Infected mice showed fewer stereotype movements with maximum reduction in week 16 of infection. There was no correlation between mice ambulatory activities or stereotype movements and infection duration. The importance of these findings in relation to the course of the disease and the underlying mechanism(s) are discussed.
Insights
Schistosoma mansoni infection in mice significantly reduces ambulatory activity and stereotype movements, impacting cognitive function. These changes suggest a neurological effect of the parasitic disease.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Parasitology
- Animal Behavior
Background:
- Schistosoma mansoni infection is a widespread parasitic disease.
- The impact of schistosomiasis on host cognitive function remains incompletely understood.
- Investigating behavioral changes can offer insights into neurological effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of Schistosoma mansoni infection on the cognitive function of mice.
- To quantify changes in ambulatory activity and stereotype movements in infected mice.
- To correlate behavioral alterations with the duration of infection.
Main Methods:
- Mice were infected with Schistosoma mansoni and monitored over 18 weeks.
- Ambulatory activity and stereotype movements were assessed using the opto-varimix instrument and autotrack computer program.
- Behavioral data from infected mice were compared to age-matched controls.
Main Results:
- Infected mice exhibited significantly lower ambulatory activities compared to controls, with peak reduction at week 8 (22.3% lower in the first 5 minutes).
- The decline in initial activity was slower in infected mice.
- Stereotyped movements were reduced, with the maximum effect observed at week 16.
- No direct correlation was found between the duration of infection and the observed behavioral changes.
Conclusions:
- Schistosoma mansoni infection markedly alters mouse behavior, indicating potential cognitive impairment.
- Reduced ambulatory activity and stereotyped movements suggest neurological dysfunction.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these behavioral changes and their clinical relevance.
