Preclinical experimental stress studies: protocols, assessment and comparison.
Anjana Bali1, Amteshwar Singh Jaggi1
1Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, Punjabi University, Patiala 147002, India.
European Journal of Pharmacology
|December 3, 2014
Summary
Preclinical stress models are crucial for understanding stress responses and developing new treatments. This review details various animal stress protocols and assessment methods for physiological and behavioral changes.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Animal Models
Background:
- Stress disrupts homeostasis, triggering adaptive physiological and behavioral responses.
- Preclinical models are essential for studying stress-induced changes and developing stress management therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review established preclinical stress models.
- To outline methods for assessing stress responses in animals.
Main Methods:
- Common preclinical stress models: immobilization, restraint, electric foot shock, social isolation.
- Stress assessment: behavioral tests (open field, social interaction), biochemical markers (corticosterone, ACTH), physiological measures (food intake, body weight, adrenal gland weight, gastric ulceration).
Main Results:
- Comparison of stressors (electric foot shock, immobilization, cold) regarding intensity, hormonal release, brain protein changes, adaptation, and sleep patterns.
- Detailed description of various stress protocols and multi-level assessment techniques.
Conclusions:
- Preclinical stress models provide valuable insights into stress pathophysiology.
- Comprehensive assessment strategies are vital for evaluating stress impacts and therapeutic efficacy.
